Essential Oils and Meditation

ESSENTIAL
OILS AND
MEDITATION
ESSENTIAL
OILS AND MEDITATION

Kathleen Pepper
{//11strated by Bode/ Rikys
Polair Publishing
P0
sox 3-+886 1.0:\DO:'\ \\'8 6\
w1111.
pol a irpu bl ish i ng.co.u k
First published
April 2007
Kathleen Pepper. 2007

l)rawings Bode! Rikvx, 2007
A catalogue
British Library Cataloguing-in-Publication

Data
record for this book is available lrom t lie lkit ish Library
ISl~i'\ 978-1-90))98-12-6
Dedtcat ion
I 1101dcllike to dedicate this book to Ylana 1lavward, who \\'a\ my teacher ofmeditation
in 1975,ILwas on her ninetieth birthday that I 1'11fr,hcdthis book.
, sckuo, 1'/('(/g111111/s
I cannot adequately thank my husband. Roi'. for hi:..patience in helping me with the computer. I
should like Loacknowledge my gratitude LoGabriel ,\lojay. Principal of'l'hc Institute olTraditional
I lcrbal \ ledicine and Aromatherapy. wirh whom I st uclicd in 199). I le aw me deeper insights in Lo Lhe
qualities of essential oils. including their energetic (vihnu ional) propcrt ics. and many olthc keynotes
used for the essential oils discussed in this work. For the hriel'lii,torical overview ofthe use ofplant
materials. T111:1Rm11TllF.R
IP\' 1101ii.;11001--.by Shirley Price (Thorxou. 199)) has been invaluable. Thanks
arc also due to Coli11111layll'arcl lor hi:..hclplu! suppor: and advice.
Set in .\rcpoat the i>ublishers

and printed in Creal Britain by Cambridge University Press
CONTENTS
Csing Essential Oils and Plant

Materials in Medi lat-ion
ituroduttion
rllchcmy and Essential Oils
The Chakras, the Subtle Body and

Oils in Medi talion
S11/Jtle.\11ato11~vatu! Esseuiiu! Oils
,\//1111i11gto the Spirit
of the Pla11t Essence
Essrntu)! Oil .'i1ljcty
Blmdi11g Oils lo Fapori:e
thc111at a I\forkshop
")
Spiritual Oualirics of
1lcdilalion Oils
1\11gclim roof
Balsa111j1r
Cedatwood
Cha 1110111
ilc
Ci1111a11w11
f'.11m~vptus
Ever!asti 11g
Fninkinccnsc
Ci11ger
I lyssop
/as111i11e
l.aventlcr
.\Ia ntla ri 11
.\Ir~v Cha 11g
.\ ~vrrh
,\'ard
.Yero/i
II
II
11
1-1
Patcuoul!
15
Pcppcn11i11l
Pinc
Hose
ffoSi'/11(/1)'
16
16
18
10
11
23
Sandalwood
4
Conclusion
rlppe11dix
1-1
16
29
31
31
3-1
36
38
-10
-II
-13
-I)
-17
-18
51
53
56
59
62
63
1. USING ESSENTIAL OILS AND PLANT

MATERIALS IN MEDITATION
Love is lite only llting tluu opens out hearts. Lsscntia! oils cany lite
love vibraiunt ojjlo11ers and healing herhs
(Paracelsus)
Introduction
Tl IE IDEA for this lit Liebook arose from more than
thirty years experience or using essential oils as an
aid to meditation and in my work as a clinical aromathcrapist. for most of this Lime I have been Leaching and facilitat ing workshops in several t herapcut ic
areas, especially yoga. relaxation and meditation.
massage and aromatherapy, and 'Connecting with
Angels'. r usually use essential oils in a diffuser or
vaporizer to enhance the atmosphere in the room.
Essential oils vaporize cleanly and release their
aroma without smoke or ash. People often ask me
to supply the particular blend or oils used. This is
easier said than done. since I usually make a unique
blend for Ihe pu rposc or the even l, so it can be di I~
Iercnt each Lime. Jn 2006. I was asked Logive a Lalk
al the Summer Festival of" the White Eagle Lodge
in Hampshire. ILwas about the hislory of essential

oils and plant materials to enhance the benefits or
meditation. I also sold a meditat ion oil blend I had
formulated. which proved popular. The audience
asked where the\' could find out more information
and suggested I write a book about the topic, so here
it is. While writing this book, I used an electric essential oil vaporizer Lo evaporate the particular oil
T was describing. The meditat ions given here were
directly inspired by this USC or the oils. Others arc
culled from my meditation diaries. which I have kepi
over a period of"more than I hirt )'years. These meditations can be used as a starting point. hut always
lollow your own inspiration.
We shall not be discussing fully the therapeutic
and healing properties or the essential oils, as manv
books al read I' do this.
From the time of"ancient Egypt Lo the present,
USING ESSENTIALOILSAND PLANT MATERIALS 5
plants and herbs have rradirionallv

been used to
induce a meditative stale. ll is believed that certain
csscnt ial oils can be used to lead the mind lrom the
every day state into one or relaxation and med ital ion.
i\ lodcrn scientists use a piece ofequipment called an
electroencephalograph
lo measure the rate or brain
waves. In meditation, the rate or the brain waves
alters. To quote lrom a scicntifi report in another
book in this series. 'Evidence that meditation leads
lo an increase in alpha waves is extensive .... A characicrist ic brai n-wave pal tern or Jong-term mcditators
includes strong b11rsts of frontally dorn inan I I he! a
rhythms. during which mcditarors report peaceful.
drifting. and generally pleasant experiences with intact self-awareness.'
There arc several ways of' using essential oiJs as
an aid Lo meditation. They can he evaporated over
water using a lea liglil or in an electric diffuser or vaporizer. The~ c:111be used di rcctly on the body. -for
example. on the chest over Ihe heart chakra or the
third e~c(eyebrow cen Ire), on Ihe inside or Ihe wrists
or inner anklebones where the pulses arc. II'used directly on the skin, essential oils should be diluted
first in some vegetable oil. like almond or jojoha, as
*From
11111~11:ri1T1TI01\1101<~~hv James
(Polnir Guides.2006).
6 ESSENTIALOILSAND MEDITATION
l~alrzcll.i\ I J)
Ihcv
are very powcrfu I and can irri talc the skin when
used near. In all cases. use only a sale amount of' two
or three drops.
\\'e find that it was only in the twentieth cent my
that oils were extracted and used for their aroma.
hence the coining of' the word 'aromatherapy'. I listorically, the whole plant was used. as in herbalism.
The word aromatherapy has recently come lo be
used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals as a selling
attract ion. I lowevcr, the earliest evidence for using
plan ls is found in cave pain Lings in the Dordognc region or France. da: ing from about eighteen thousand
vears ago. These paintings arc thought lo show hall'
plan ls were generally used for medicinal purposes.
There arc many ways to obtain aromatic extracts
from plants. These include expression of' the peel. as
with citrus fruits: en lieu rage, where jasmine flowers

arc laid on Lrays of' fat or oil lo extract ihc perfume:
maceration and solvent cxtracrion, as well as the
usual method of' distillation. DisLillaLion was traditionallv used Lo ex! racr cxot ic llowcr waters and essences for use in perfumes, such as rose. The amount
of essential oils present in the petals is very small.
You need six! y thousand roses Lo make 28 grams (a
fluid ounce) or rose essential oil. Thal is, twentv-Iivc
roses produce one drop or oil. making rose oil 1Try
expensive. IJ. as a child. you tried Lo make rose perfume by soaking rose petals, this is the reason that
the result was disappointingto say the least:
The earl icst evidence [or ext racling aroma! ic
substances from plan ls is found in EgypL and India.
about five thousand years ago. In both countries, the
use or plan Ls played an important role. linking religion and medicine Logelher. In India, there has been
con! inuous use of' plan ls in Ayurvcdic medicine until the present. One ofthe oldest references lo using
plants is found in the Vedas. In Xlohcnjo Dara, an

ancient city excavated in the Indus \'alley in wha: is
now Pakistan, lhere is archaeological evidence or a
method or pri 111 il ivc d isl illal ion. Plan! material. such
as sandalwood. ginger. myrrh. cinnamon and coriander, was placed in a clay vessel. lhen covered with
a thick layer or sheep's fleece and heated. The fleece
would gradually be saturated with the essential oil
from condensed steam and. when cool. it could be
squeezed lo produce the oil. lt is thought a similar
system was also used in Egypt,
There is plenty or informal ion about [he use or
plants in Fgypl and the :\ilc is known as the cradle
or medicine. Ccdarwood, lrankinccnse. mvrrh and
cinnamon were in common use. As well as the prirnil ivc means or dis! illat ion noted. the Fgypl inns used
lars or waxes to extract !~11-or wax-soluble molecules
from plan ls. and pain! ings or jars containing such
substances arc seen in EgypLian Lambs. The Egyplians were so successful in their use and knowledge
of plan ls tha: embalmed bodies arc still preserved
lIrrec thousand years later. Perfumery was associated
with the Egyptian priesthood, who worked out the
formulas that were used by the pharaohs Lo anoint
lhcmsclves for ceremony, war and love. Special incense called kvphi was burn! in offering al sunset lo
Ra. the Egypl ian sun god. There arc several recipes
for kyph: and it included such ingredients as wine.
honey, raisins, myrrh. cardornom, juniper. mint.
cypress, spikenard, cassia and cinnamon. Ii was reputed lo heal the soul. The Egyptians were not the
only people who used aromas or resins in religious
ceremonies. Assyrians. Hahylonians, Phoenicians,
I lchrews, Chinese. Greeks and Romans. as well as
Christians all burnt resins like frankincense in their
religious ceremonies.
When Moses led the Hebrews out of Egypt, he
would have taken his knowledge about oils, herbs
and spices to Israel. Lie was brought up in the palace of' the pharaoh, as Ihe adopted son or a princess.
and would probably have known about Ihe religious
use ofoils and perfumes. Several oils. such as hyssop,
myrrh. frankincense and spikcnard, arc referred Lo
in the Old 'lcstament. Olive oil would have been the
usual carrier oil at that Lime in the xtiddlc liast. In
Ihe Book or Samuel. the prophet anointed Saul as the
lirst king or Israel. Soaking resins or other plan I matcrial. such as Rowers. stems, leaves or roots, in vegctuhlc oil uni ii it absorbed the resins and essences.
could make rragranl oils for religious use. Sometimes
the juice or flowers and plan ls would be squeezed
out into the carrier oil.
The Greeks went to Egypt to study medicine and

essences and classified and indexed the knowledge
of plants. Hippocrates said the way Lohealth was Lo
have an aromatic bath every day. The Romans gave
us the word 'perfume', which comes from the Latin
per lumum, meaning through the smoke, referring
Lothe burning of' incense. Roman soldiers Look seeds
Lothe countries they ruled so that herbs, like fennel.
parsley. sage. rosemary and thyme, came lo Britain.
Dioscoridcs, a Roman who lived in the first century
AD. wrote about the uses of' five hundred plants in
his hook, De s utteria i\tfedica.
In the first millennium, Baghdad became the centre for rose oil from Persia. It is Ihought that the Arabs
were the first lo clisLilethyl alcohol from fermented
sugar, so providing the first alternative method of
extracting essential oils using solvents, Damascus
also had a perfume industry. Tn the tenth century.
the famous Persian physician, Avicenna, discovered
the modern method of distillation. Improving the
simple dist iilaLion methods of the time, he extended
the cooling pipe and coiled it, enabling the vaporized plant molecules and steam lo cool more quickly
and cfiicienlly. Knowledge about using essential oils
and perfumes was brought LoEurope by the Crusaders. ?\ lonastcrics began lo grow fragrant plants for
their religious and medicinal USC. Hildegard or Bingen grew lavender for its oil, and frankincense and
pine oils were burned lo combat the plague. France
became famous for its perfumes.
In the twentieth century, investigation began
in Lo the healing properties of' essential oils. and the
term aromatherapy came into use about 1950. Escnrial oils arc used in beau Lytherapy, massage, clinical aromatherapy and as a supplement lo spiritual
healing. All of these therapies work on body, mind
and spirit, seeing the body in a holisLic way. Used in
massage, or in baths or as compresses, the molecules
of the essential oils arc quickly absorbed through the
kin by means of' the hair follicles and fine pores. Ln
inhalation .. as on a tissue or from a vaporizer, they
are absorbed through the olfactory nerve and into
the Limbic system and then circulaLccl Lhrough the
nervous system. Often essential oils can get straight
to the emotions or places that need healing. Different essences have different proper! ies, on which arc
based the traditional herbal use. Traditional talcs of
the way in which gods, goddesses and archetypes arc
associated with plants and herbs also provide clues
to their spiritual use.*
*For much or this information. I have drawn Oil Shirley
Price's A1to~1.1T11E1t1P11101tK1100K(Thorsons. London. 1993).
Alchemy and Essential Oils

In medieval Europe, alchemy was a philosophy and
branch or science lhat sough! lo find a \\'a)' or turning base metal in Logold. and to discover the elixir or
lilc. or the philosopher's stone. a universal cure. ILis
thought today that this was a metaphor for turning
the denseness or the physical body into the gold or
spiritual enlightenment. Another definition is that ii
is a synonym for the means or transformat ion.
Paracelsus, in the sixteenth century, maintained
lhal the main role or alchemy was not LOturn base
metals into gold, hut rather Lo extract the healing
properties of plan ts. I le !Cit that dis Lillat ion released
the mos! spiritual essences or the plants, and so aromathcrapy can be considered a form or alchemy. J\s a
result ofhis work, essential oils of ccdarwood, cinnamon, frankincense, myrrh, rose, rosemary and sage
became well known.
Essential oils. by their very name, arc the essences
of the plants. In distillation, the spirit ofthe plan! is
released and preserved in the essential oil. The more
you honour Ihe spirit of the oil, the more it will Leach
you. \Ne now live in a very technical era, surrounded
by the designs of modern Lcchnology. Yet 11clive on
a beautiful planet, called by many Caia, or Mother
Earth. for she provides us with all our needs. Even

medicines and pharmaccut icals arc derived from
plan Ls, but Ihe different chemical components are
extracted and isolated lo provide the relevant medicine. On the other hand. essential
oils contain the whole plant essence. Ii is said 1ha1 Iheir synergistic allcrt is more Ihan Ihe sum of
lire separate components.
If' you love gardens, Ihere is
refreshment 10 be found just by
welkinst' or siuinut'I amonut' the
plants and lrees. The seen! or lire
plan ls and shrubs refresh the senses as lire cool breezes or warmth of
l hc sun disperses their scents. /\II
our senses arc involved with this
experience-touch.
taste. scent. seeing and hearing.
The sense of' smell is connected to the limbic
system, the mos! primitive pan of' our brain. II is
the basis of' our emotions and feelings. The scent
or a perfume or plant can instantly recreate our old
memories. A client or mine. when I asked her if she
would like rose oil in the massage blend. categorically refused. She said she couldn't bear the scent
or roses because. when she ll'CIS ten years old (sixt )'
years previously). her father died. She was forbidden lo cry bu! allowed lo throw roses into Iris grave
al the burial. Likewise. the seen! or orange blossom
(neroli) can instant ly I ransport
a woman back in memory Lo her
wedding day, or jasmine to warm
summer nigh Lson holiday in tropical countries. Ccdarwood or pine
oil can bring the memories or eelebration during ihe winier season,
with their warming scents.
\\'c can all become alchemists.
Through the heaviness and difficultics of Ihe material life darkness
can be transformed into light, into
the gold of the spirit By knowing
darkness as well as lighL. we arc able lo experience
transformation. B111 this can only he experienced
wit Ir love and joy. th rough our foeLingsand emotions.
not by the cold analysis or the chemist or by following formulae. So, as Paracelsus said. love is the only
Lhing that opens our hearts. Our daily work needs Lo
be done in a spirit oflove andjoy. and this attitude is
also the one Lobring Loour work with essential oils.
2. THE CHAKRAS, THE SUBTLE BODY

AND OILS IN MEDTTATTON
Subtle Anatomy and Essential Oils
l.:\ Tl IE lradi tional spiritual Leachi ngs of'yoga, it is said
that lhe sub! le body, consisting of many layers around
the physical body. contains 72,000 tuulis. A nadi is
a point in the physical body where energy connects
the cncrgy bodies Lo the physical bodv. \\'hen I was
tudyi.ng Traditional Chinese \ ledicinc on Cabricl
.\lojays course. l was fascinated lo realize that the
tsubos (acu-points) of acupuncture, acupressure and
hiatsu arc also used in ~oga.The same places where
pressure is placed on the body i11a yoga posture arc
the tsubos where pressure is applied in acupressure
and aromatherapy massage. The yoga asanas puL
pressure on the same tsubos during the lime lhe
posture is held. while using the correct breathing
technique, either mahat pra11aym11a (full yogic breath)
or 1ljjayi pra11ayaJ11a (victorious breath), depending on
the post urc and tradition being followed.
\ Vhilc it is not possible LOhave a full discussion of'
chakras here, there must be an alchemical connection
between them and the way in which oils arc absorbed
from the subtle body. where the chakras arc. into the
phvsicul bodv, The seven major chakras are connected
Lo the spine. They connect with the physical body
Lhrough the endocrine glands, which arc the physical
counterparts or the chakras. The spine, which is like
a tree-trunk, or slall; supports your body. The nerves
and circulation svstem in ihc physical body and the
uadis in the subtle body are like the branches and
Iwigs lhat radiate out and carry energy around lhem .
The Iirmcr and stronger the spine is, lhe bcucr the
posture is, and the better is the circulation or nut ricn ls
and subtle life-forces that flow around our bodies.
The ancient ~oga texts inform us that there is a
subtle energy called pmna contained in the air we
breathe and in lhe pure food we cal that nourishes
our bodies. Ln the east. it is called qi or chi. The I lebrews called it iuarch. The Creeks referred lo it as
p11e11J11a.All lhesc words carry a sub! lcr message
about breath than the English word docs. The lilcforce. then, is carried around the body in the blood
circulution and the subtle cncrcv
throushti Lile tuulis
U.1
and chakras. The chakras arc 'attached lo the spinal
THE CHAKRAS,THE SUBTLE BODY AND OILS IN MEDITATION 11
column as centres ofligl1t rather like bell bell-shaped

flowers.' They arc 'like receivers .... They seem Loabsorb. take in. the Light: they seem to be where the
body breathes in the vital forces (VVhiLeEagle. Spiritual unfoldment I).
White Eagle, a twentieth-century spiritual teacher. continues that the centre or the chakra system is
the heart chakra. not the head centre or the brain.
IL is like the sun around which the solar system revolves. 'Then the 'precious jewel within the lotus
quickens and grows. \:\'hen the oils are inhaled in Lo
the respiratory system the subtle essences arc taken
up into the circulatory system through the heart.
When essential oils are applied like perfume' to the
pulse points inside the wrists and inner ankles. they
connect with some or the tsubos and also the arterial system. When the oil is applied onto the higher
chakra points. like the crown or the head, third eye.
throat and heart, the spiritual benefits or the oil are
absorbed into all the bodies. physical and subtle. or
spiritual. (In meditation, use one point only to apply
the oils.) Also. during inhalation of' the essential oils.
they arc carried directly into the brain through the
limbic system.
"Remember lh;rl essential oils should be blended in 1cgetable oil when used di reel Iv on Ihe skin.
Attuning to the Spirit of

the Plant Essence
Once when I was in Texas, working with the Native
American teachings. my teacher told me to forget
what I had been told about the way in which the
indigenous peoples had found out the healing and
spiritual properties or plants. 'Did you think,' she
asked. 'that in those days. the medicine people ate a
tiny portion and waited to sec what would happen?
No. th;_itwasn't how they found out. They sat with
the plant and tuned in lo it. The plant told them how
to use it. \\'c can still do it, if'we learn how and practise and ifwe radiate love and respect lo it.'
Dr Edward Bach, who discovered and developed the l~ach flower healing essences, also used
this method. He developed such sensitivity in body
and mind that he would search the fields and hedgerows for flowers that would heal the negative stales
or mind that he suffered, bringing him back lo harmony. lkforc discovering the particular remedy. he
would experience the emotional states that would be
healed by the plant.
~ly teacher got me to sit under trees and ask
them to tell me how I could use them. I was amazed
at what they said. especially as r did not recognize
the trees and plants of Texas. She wouldn't tell me

what thev were until after I had tuned in. So here
is the way that you can tune in to plants and their
essences. We arc so used Loreading a reference book
or looking up the Internet. 11eforget we can rely on
our own inspiration and intuition. It's a matter of
trusting ourselves. Keep a notebook and record your
plant attuncmcnts or meditations. so you begin to
build up a record or what you receive. You will get
diffcren Lideas whenever you do th is. J\ Ithough th is
book will 0
zive \'OU some ideas to bcuin with. vou can
also learn Lo rely on your own intuition. Share your
insi.ghts with a group or friends who arc also interJ
cslcd in plan Ls. SO a Ill'\\' tradition or plant use can

be built up.
In distillation, the spirit or the plant is released
and preserved in the essential oil. The more you
honour the oil. the more iL will Leach vou. \\'hen I
use essential oils during my workshops. I choose and
dedicate the relevant oil for the purpose. according
Lo the topic or the work, lo inspire the participants
and release old pall ems in order Lobring in new wisdom and knowledge.
I. Choose the plant if'vou have it. or an essential
oil of"your choice. Organic or wild plants arc best if"
you can get them. Ifyou use an essential oil. you G111
use a vaporizer or put one or two drops on a tissue
to smell it. You can also use a drop over the third eye
(eyebrow centre) or the heart centre al the centre
of the chest. Use one drop or the essential oil in a
teaspoon or l'cgetable oil-almond
oil or grapcsced
oil arc easily available at the pharmacist. lojoba also
makes a good hasc but iLwill be solid in cold weather.
You can blend your mixture in an egg-cup or similar
small vessel and cover with cling film. keeping it in
the rcf"rigcrator for use on another occasion. II"the
plant is lrom another country or continent. and no
supplies arc available here, you can find pictures
of Lhe plant Lo help with vour visualization. The
THE CHAKRAS,THE SUBTLE BODY AND OILS IN MEDITATION 13
internet is a good source or information and you

cou Id pri 11l off the pi cl ure.
2. Sil in a quiet place where you will not be
disturbed. Turn ollthc phone. II'you Like meditative
music. play some music lo create the right atmosphere. especially if you live in a noisy place. Light a
candle lo represent light. Csc a while candle or one
that isl he colour or lhe flower or plant.
1. Tune in lo vour breath. Notice each breath
as it comes in and goes out. II' your mind wanders.
bring it back lo the breath.
4. Visualize vourself surrounded by pure white
light. Tin while light reflects silver and gold lights
and the colours or the plant or flower. Breathe it in
until you feel you arc lillecl b~this light and it surrounds you. You find yourself sitting in a sphere or
beautiful light. As you continue Lo focus on your
breath and the colours. Lake them into the centre of
your chest, the heart centre. or mind in the heart as
\\'hi le Eagle, the spiritual teacher. calls iL.
5. Now bring your attention and intention Lo
the oi I or plan I. II'you know the colour of the flower
or plant. visualize the colour. Tune in Lo ii. Think
or nothing else and brcat he from your heart centre
in Lothe plant 's energy. You may sec the shining form
or the plant dcva, all light and colour, which will be
working wil h you to use the plan I.* Shower the plant
with love from your heart. assuring it you will use iL
011111
for ihc hishcst
<rood. Trusl what .vou arc Laid bv"'
,/
~
Cl
it. Be open lo any pictures, thoughts, colours. feelings or ideas that come Loyou.
6. \\'hen the med ital ion is complete. focus
your alien lion back lo your breathing. Deepen your
breath and start Lolisten Loany sounds around you.
Feel your ICeLon lhe lloor, rub your hands Logelher lo
create warmth and then cup them over your closed
eyes . xlassagc your brow, checks. jaw and chin and
then open your eyes and stretch your body. \\'rile
down what you experienced. Some or the ideas and
meditations I used in this book came Lo me manv
years ago. but insights arc no! lost ifwritten down.
Essential Oil Safety

Never take essential oils internally
Dilute essential oils before using on the skin. As
a general rule. USL'Onl'to two drops of essential Oil
'Purucclsus called this the archvus (sec\ lojal'. 1Ro.11 vrurup. -1:9).ll is the spiritual essence,
the Iile-force of Ihr plant. also called lhe qi.
11>1 ron 1111111>:(; 1111~111ur.
one teaspoon (5 mis) of \'egctablc oil. If your skin

l\ Sensitive. USl' l11'0teaspoons (10 mis) of vegetable
LI. t.sc grapesccd. almond or jojoba, making sure
Blending Oils to Vaporize

at a Wm;kshop
they arc of' cosmetic qualit ~1101cooking oils.

Do 1101use cirrus oils 011 the skin before going
out in the sun.
Essential oils arc not soluble in water. so dispcrsc them vigorously before bathing and use not
more than five drops in a bath-less
ifvour skin is
ensitivc or damaged.
In cases of intolerance, ilvou Lind essential oils
make your skin reel prickly. r111Jin vegetable oil, like
grapesccd or almond. lo absorb the essential oil and
ease irritation.
L'sc irritating oils in a burner or diffuser only.
not on the skin.
II' you arc under medical supervision. alwavs
consult a doctor or a qualified clinical aromatherapist before 11singcsscnt ial oils.
Do not use during prcgnancv
Choose good qualitj: essential oils, prckrably

organic. Always look for the Lalin (botanical)
name lo
make sure you knoll' what yo11 arc buving. If you arc
not an aromatherapist.
yo11r nose will soon gel used
Lo inhaling the best q11ality oils if you visit pharma-
cies that have good testers. or go lo a workshop where

vou can get used Lo good qualitv oils. Remember
that the scent of' an essential oil may not be qui le the
same as the plant produces: lhere is a subtle difference and yom nose will soon learn lo distinguish it.
.\lso. cheaper and poorer q11ality oils smell coarser,
Coed essential oils arc more expensive but worthwhile 11sing. cspcciallv when chosen for meditation.
lkgin to learn about blending by p11Ltingone drop of'
essential oil al a Lime in a small dish. \\'hrn you get
lo a pleasant scent. write down your combination.
Then you can multiplv in the proportion you wish lo
use. For example. you might decide on a ratio olonc
drop or cucalypt us lo l11'0drops or lavender.', lake a
limes six quantity. and it would last for several sessions when one or t110drops arc used. so store the oil
mix in a small 2.5 or Srnl dropper bot Lie.
THE CHAKRAS.THE SUBTLE BODY AND OILS IN MEDITATION 15
3. SPIRITUAL QUALITlES OF MEDITATION 01 LS

Angelica root
(Anodica
archanodica)
o
(....,
Kcvnote: r01ijide11re. clarity. sptritual inspiration and
connection lo angels.
Affirmation: I rL\I s111To1111dedhy the l0Fi11ge1IC'lg)'of
a118ds ant! archr111gels tuu! their inspiratlon is alll'ays
aFai/ahlc lo 111c.
TlllS PL.\:--JT is well known because the sterns are
crystallized in sugar and used in cake decoration. II
is some! imes called angel's grass.
Angelica is expensive, usually only available in
the trade, An aromatherapist may be able Losell you
I or 2 mis. The plant is called alter the archangels
'because or its angelical virtues ... it is a herb of' the
sun.' (Culpeper) As an herb ofthe sun, it is associated
with Archangel Michael. I.ike Ihe sword of' Archangel
\lichael. it can help lo cut through illusions, helping
us Loface our shadow selfand 10 develop more spiri111allyas we become self-aware. II assists in helping
us Loconnect wit hour spiritual nature.
I burn this oil when connecting with angels and
al workshops when needing lo attune lo higher"

spiritual vibrations. lnvite Archangel ~tichael and all
angels lo join you when using ii for meditation or if"
f~1cililaling a workshop. For personal use. ii will also
help you lo connect with your own guardian angel,
who is with you from birth. Although many people
are able to speak and connect with theirs, others do
not know how Loconnect with them. Use the following meditation lo attune Lo your guardian angel or
when vou need Locontact it for nart icular advice.
/db ..
'
J\TTU~Ei\ \ Ei\T TO YOLJR P.ERSOi'\i\I. i\NCEl.S
Put one or two drops of angelica oil in a vaporizr to scent the air. Cent re yourself' with gentle breath'!- Feel each breath in the nostrils as you breathe
ri and out. Follow the breath as it enters your chest.
gin lo visualize a shining sun above your head. As
u breathe in, visualize yourself being filled with
ighl. which floods yo11r whole being. Feel as if every
atom and cell is radiating light like millions or liny
uns, Feel yourself' rising upwards, as ii' on wings of
ight, along a path or light into the world of' light.
c this path, as a shafl or light shining in front of
you. as you travel up it.
2. You find yourselfin a beautiful garden. ILis summer and the sun is shining as you walk with bare
feel across the grass. The grass feels son and velvety
under your feet. There arc beds of flowers of many
colours on each side of' the path and the warm air
filled with a beautiful scent. You feel filled with
peace and lranquillit y.
3. In front of' you is a magnificent rose arbour with
white roses climbing over iL.The arbour is built in
the shape or a large circle with while trellised panels and an arched entrance. Like a temple formed or
white roses. Inside arc white marble benches. At the
centre is a beautiful fountain. The water rises up in Lo
the air and rainbow mists form in the spray as the

sun catches the waler droplets.
4. Sit Oil one or the benches. Visualize your own
personal angel coming to sit beside you and ask
for its name. lk open and receptive Lo any ideas or
messages that come Lo you and don't dismiss them
as only imagination. Ask questions or discuss any
problems that concern you al this Lime.
S. Your angel LeUs you that yo11don t have jusl one
angel. There is a whole team of"angels that works
with you in different areas or your Life.You arc never
alone and ~ou have never been alone and they communicate with you in many ll'ays-through
dreams.
books. ideas. the things people say to you. the songs
you hear. Be alert to pictures. ideas or insights.
6. T'no11that angels or light surround you and the
planet earth at this special Lime. Spiritual slrenglh
and inspiration arc flowing into us. and the planet.
from the spiritual realms that surround us. so that
people can make progress in spiritual understanding. Ask. and you will be given all the inspiration you
need lo help you. This may come in the meditation
iisclfor in some other way al another Lime.
7. When you feel your mcditat ion is finished. make
sure you are centred again (sec note 6 on page 14).
SPIRITUAL QUALITIES OF MEDITATION OILS 17
Balsam fir
(1\bies
balsamea)
1,;c\'llote:joy. mligh1e11111ml. clea11si11g.

Aflirrnation: :Vly mind is pure and clear and ! r111101/l'
!Fi//, al/.
Balsam Fir might he dillicult Lo source, hut is inexpensive when you can lind it. Fir lrecs arc some or
the commonest trees in the world and grow in high
altitudes and in the northern hemisphere. The scent
or the trees is very fresh and cleansing, particularly on a warm day when the resin is released from
the needles and branches. The balsam fir grows in
America and Canada, and was used by the Nat ive
Americans for medicinal and religious purposes. TLis
a Lonie, bringing cleansing, energy and vitalii v.
The oil is steam-distilled from the needles and
brings the lresh aroma or the Christmas season. the
winter solstice, into homes. Fir lrees arc the trees or
choice for Christmas trees. They also bring scents
reminiscent of the grern forest into the home in the
winter, with their uplifting. green and vibrant energy.
The aroma has a stimulating effect on the immune
svsicm, bringing menial alert ness al a lime when the
energy is 1011-. For clarity of mind in meditation, drop
one or lwo drops or balsam fir in your aromatic blend.
ILalso 'opens the chest, allowing you LoLakea deeper

breath. Deep breathing has an energizing and opening cllccr on the heart chakra, through its connection
with the thymus gland. often known as the higher
heart chakra. This connecLion between lhe breath, the
mind and the heart chakra, enables lhe mediLaLor Lo
make a spiritual connection with the higher self and
yet remain aware and grounded. Balsam fir resonates
with the emotion ofjoy. known in the yoga tradition
as bliss (mw11da), the ultimate go;d ofour life on planet
earth. Joy, bliss, is lhe goal or lhe mcdirator, bringing
that sense oral one mcnt, union with the divine.
There are references Lo lir in the Bible, such as 'I
will put in the desert the cedar and the acacia, the
myrtle and the olive. I will set pines in the wasteland.
the fir and the cypress together, so tha: people may
sec and know. may consider and understand. that
the hand or the Lord has done this, that the Holy
One of' Israel has created it' (Isaiah 41: 1.9,20).
The Biblical 'Balm of Gilead' is said lo be the
balsam fir. but a different variety or it, According LO
A Modern Herba! (:vi rs C ricvc), it is a lree lhat grows
about ten or twelve feel high, rare and difficult Lo
grow. It has been grown in protected gardens in Cairo.
LLwas mentioned by Calen and Dioscoridcs and exported lo Rome at the rime of Vespasian. Some stories
.the ~teen
or Sheba gave it LoSolomon. Its name
aim derives from balsam in its derivation from the

ebrcw 'hot s111i11". 'chicfoloils. or "sweet smell".
Ln mv researches into balsam fir. I have found
nnect ions bet ween archangels and this oil.
"11'.-l:dsh ifl.com/products/htm
I/art iclcs.h tm I) In
e Tree or Lifc model, the posi Lion all he ccn lre ort he
ly. the solar plexus chakra and the heart chakra,
known as Tilcrct, meaning Beauty or Splendour.
d it is associated with Archangel :\lichael who is
II of' splendour, like the sun. His name means "Like
nto God". This place at the centre ofthe body is like
the sun. around which the other six chakras. like the
lanets, or archangels (archetypes) revolve (Cortcns.
vonu:: wrru ,\:--;c;1-:1s).'Hut lor you who revere mv
name. the sun of"righlcousness will rise with healing
nils wings.' (.\ lalachi 4:2)
Because olthis connection between the opening
'lf the chest and heart chakra, balsam (ir, Archangel
vlichacl and his place on the Tree of Lile. an ideal
meditation is a connection with him. i\ Iichucl brings
you courage and insights into making changes t
1110\'C Oil from stagnation in your life.
''
ATTUXH\EKT
TO ARC! lr\l\C El. :\llCI IJ\FL
I. Sitting in your usual meditation position. begin

to centre yourself with your breathing, Follow the
breath into your chest and heart cent re. Feel yourself'
bathed in golden sunlight and rising upwards on a
rayof"light.
2. You find yourself in a beautiful garden among
avenues or fine trees. l.ook around and sec a bcauli[ul white building in the distance al the end or one or
the vistas. \\'alk towards it until you arc standing in
front ofit. ILis a temple or light. with a finely-carved
door and seven steps of clear quartz leading up to it.
3. Climb the steps. !eel ing the warmth and smoothncss or the crystal under your bare feet.
-+. When you reach the double doors. there arc
handles of gold. Turn the handle and open the door.
Inside is a bcautilu] circular hall. The lloor is quartz
and there arc pillars or golden ciirinc. The roof is
open to the lighl and it pours in. radiating and sparldi11g onto the crystal. As it docs so. the hall reflects
all the colours and shades of the speer rum. Vases of'
roses and lilies stand around the walls and their perfume fills the air.
'i. ALthe centre is a candle, like a pillar, with a still
llame burning on it. The candle is level with vour
SPIRITUALQUALITIES OF MEDITATION OILS 19
heart centre. There are while benches placed around

the walls and you sit on one. The al mosphere
is
peaceful and you lccl refreshed and energized.
6. Become aware ofih presence of"Archangel \lichacl. You might see him as a colour, or as a shining
lighL, a vibration, or as he is usually painted in pictures. I lowcvcr you sec him or sense him. you know
he is there.
7. I le lakes a candle and lights it Irorn the pillar
candle, then gives ii Lo you. IL is a symbol of lighL,

to show you the way forward in your life, If you arc
stuck and do nol know what Lodo. you can visualize
the \\'ay ahead using the light ofthe candle. ,\\ichael
asks you what will be the first thing you will do durinu~ the corninu~ week lo move on and make chances.
0
Tell him any small idea tha: comes 10 mind. (Big
things star! with small steps. or think big and start
small.)
8. LLis lime lo return now. Thanking the Archangel you walk back Lo the en! ranee and down the
steps, moving back along the ray or light until you
lind yourself silting in your room again. Begin Lo
ground yourself by breathing more deeply, feel the
solidity of the floor, the ground and start lo stretch
and oprn your eyes.
Cedarwood
(Cedtus atlantica)
Keynote: slrmglh. sta/Jili!y. and endurance.
Aflirmation: /;\,\I a/1vaysfilled 1vilh spirilual s/renglh.
tlte st re11g1hlo endure lhrough life:c;greates! challc11gcs.
Cedarwood oil is inexpensive and ii can easily be purchased in a good pharmacy or health store. Ccdrus
atlantica is the Atlas cedar tree. closely related 10 the
cedar of Lebanon. Ccdrus derives from the Arabic
word kcdron meaning power. The ancient Egyptians
used ccdarwood as ritual incense and it is often men!ioned in the Hihle, Cedar or Lebanon was used in the
building or Solomon's temple: 'So give orders that cedars or Lebanon will be CUL for me' Cl kings 5:6).
The Tibetans used ii as temple incense. The
wood is very strong, resisting decay and repelling
insects due Lo the high concentration of essential
oil in iL.It is good (or mental concentration, a useful
ability in meditation, when everyday thoughts can
distract the mind. I like lo think olcedarwood as ihc
pillars or our own temple, the temple of the body,
which houses the spirit. Using ccdarwood helps Lo
keep us grounded in meditation and yet stills the
mind when 11'efeel that our thoughts arc scattered.
irituallv, ccdarwood
gives immovable strength in
of crisis. 11 is said lo bring the angels of' wis-
closer. and will bring the guardian angels closer

times when we need extra sl rcngth. (\ Vorwood,
FR\CR\:\T I IE.\\'l:NS.p. 119) This oil then. can
used an~ Lime when you arc reeling vulnerable.
a good oil to keep in the office desk. brier case
- handbag. Inhaling a drop of ccdarwood oil from
sue is useful during workplace emergencies or.
en travelling, Lo give strength and confidence in
ercni environments. II can be used as a 'rescue'
- medv (not internally). The Bach flower remedy.
CUC Remedy. is an ideal rarl Ill'!" lo Carr~ with it.
d it can be taken by mout h.
\\'hen you want Lo meditate lo gain strength and
vtra insights i11a particular situation, burn a drop of'
edarwood, or put on a tissue lo inhale it. and follow
he meditation method on pages 13-14.
Chamomile
(Nlalricaria rccutita. German Chamomile and
Anthemus nu/Ji/is. Roman Chamomile)
Kcyno Ies: ca /111. peace. accep!
Affirmation: I a111at peat.
a nee. serl'11ity.
This oi.I is quite expensive, especially German chamomile. but you should be able Lo find it.
Chamomile is a small herb, of which 1 here arc
several species. Its fine leaves are leathery and its
[lowers are rather like daisies. It will grow almost everywhere, but thrives best on sandy soil. When used
as a lawn in the garden, its fragrance is released into
lhe air when people walk on it. The l wo varieties
that are used most for distiWng essential oil arc the
German and Roman chamomiles. During vaporization. it rills the air with its delicate aroma. Chamomile Lea is a very popular and soothing drink, useful
for migraine headaches and gasl ric problems and as
a tonic and analgesic. Chm110111illa is a horncopat hie
remedy for toothache and teething in babies. JI i
also used in perfumes. cosmetics, soaps. shampoos
and lluvourings.
Chamomile has had over three thousand years of'
traditional herbal use i11the ancient world and the
SPIRITUALQUALITIESOF MEDITATION OILS 21
Mcditcnnncan
area. The ancient Egyptians dedicated the herb lo the sun. to Ra the sun god. Tts sunny
associations
assist those with sadness, depression
and melancholy to reel joy again. in rhc same way
that the sun brings warmth and upliftmcnt after the
darkness ola storm. ILimparts a sense or peace, calm
and serenity lo those who have been emotionally
distressed.
A varietv or chamomile oil was used on the

body of Ra meses 11in 1224 BC as a preparation for
burial. Statues of gods. decorated with leaves and
(lowers, were found in Tutankhamen's Lomb. One
or these herbs was a variety or chamomile. which
was dedicated to the moon due to its soothing and
calming abilities, useful when people are angry and
irritable and suffering from stress. it is also thought
that Christ would have known a Palestinian variety,
chamomile anthcmus palacstina. Chamomile was
dedicated lo Si J\ nne. the mot her of' the Virgin Mary,
Tt represents patience in adversity because of us delicaie hut hardv nature. It was one of' the nine sacred
herbs or Ihe Saxons and they called it tuayihcn. ILis
also known as the plant's physician as it promotes
health in other plants growing nearby.
The essential oil is blue. due Lo the presence of
azulcnc, with the German variety being deeper in
colour. Blue is associated 11 ith the throat chakra,

enabling people Lo express themselves clearly and
to work on anger and lear. Because or its association
with the sun and the moon as sources oflight. it rcsonatcs with the body or light. In meditation, il unites
us with the Light, helping to soothe and calm agiLation, so that meditation becomes easier.
MEDITATION ON PEACE
This meditation is a traditional yoga visualization

Lo bring about serenity. The blue cloudless sky
represents the mind without disLracling thoughts
(clouds). If clouds appear in the sky, just visualize
them lloaung away out. olsight,
I. Sprinkle a few drops or chamomile oil into the
vaporizer. You can use either or both varieties.
2. Attune Loyour breathing. llyou arc reuse, begin
lo no Lice the gentle calming affect or chamomile as
you breathe in its aroma.
3. Visualize the blue sky, still and calm, without
any clouds, as on a still summer clay. Continue to
breathe gently and focus on both your breath, the
aroma of the oil and the blue or the sky. ff your mind
wanders Loother things. bring it back.
4. Continue until you fed calm and serene. Then
conclude your meditation.
Cinnamon
(Ci 11na mo111u111zcyla 11icuni)
. noLes:joy. warmth.
rmation: I a111Jillcd ivilhjoy and c111ifidc11rr.
urniuy: cinnamon should not be used on the skin.
it is an irritant. LLis best used in lhe burner or difer.
innarnon is well known as a spice in cooking and
burning oil in Christmas spice blends. The aroma
.cinnamon. blended with mandarin or orange and
alsam fir, cedarwood, or pine csscnt ial oils imrncdielv invokes the fun and jollily of' the partv season.
. e of f'amily and friends al re-unions and cclcbraions. and uplif'ts the spiriLs during the cold dark
an of' win ler.
ILis a very ancient medicinal plant and was used
n Egvpr in the embalming process. It is lrequentlv
mentioned in the Bible. for example, in Exodus 30.
'here xloscs is instructed lo make a holy oil that included six-and-a-half' pin ls (four litres) or cinnamon
oil. Il was lo be used in ordination services and was
holv because it was dedicated to Cod. Cinnamon
was also known and used in China, where it is mentioned in records dating back lo 2700 BC.
l.'se cinnamon sparingl~ in the

er. as it has a strong aroma that can
oils. It creates a cheerful atmosphere
with the above oils for parties and
winier.
burner or diffusoverpower ot her

when vaporized
lunctions in the
B.\SIC BLEND FOR A

SPICY Cl IRfSTI\ IAS BUR;--.JINC 01 L
2 drops ofcinnamon essential oil
6 drops of mandarin (or rangcrin) oil)
4 drops of' ccdarwood or balsam fir or pine (according Loyom preference or availability)
Place in a vaporizer with a lit Liewater and a lea light
under. or in a diffuser or aroma stone .
This blend is ideal for party time during the wintcr, Christmas and New Year season and brings an
atmosphere or warmth and rejuvenation. It lifts the
spirits al the darkest Lime ofthe year.
SPIRITUAL QUALITIES OF MEDITATION OILS 23
Eucalyptus
(Eurnlyptus glolm/11s)
Keynotes: l'i31mr r111dvitality: cleansing: optimism and
ope1111ess:adaptability.
:\ l'firmat ion: 1a111Jilled1vit'1 divine c11e1gyand s/rc11g1h.
,\ ~' Jij( is i11lwn11011y. Ido wlia! ! love and! love what I
do ant! I do itfor the highesl 8ood of all.
The oil is inexpensive and easily obtained al good
pharmacies and health food shops. ILis contra-indicated during homeopathic treatment. Ltis best used
as an inha Ian I. as it is qui le strong for use on the skin
and should first be diluted iJ1a good quality vegetable oil (sec pages 13-14).
Eucalyptus is native Lo Australia, although it is
now found everywhere. Lt is a beautiful LaU evergreen tree and lhere arc over seven hundred varier ics.
Among them arc a lemon-scented one, Eucalyptus citriadora and a peppermint one, E11ca01pl11sdives. The
oil is distilled lrom the leaves and twigs. The leaves
arc very tough and leathery, with not much aroma
when first attempting Lo smell them. However, when
you rub them hard and bruise them, the scent of the
oil is released onto your hands and fills the air. Its
oil is well known as an inhalant for chest and lung
24 ESSENTIALOILS AND MEDITATION
infections. 'opening' the chest for easier breathing. IL

is stimulating, soothing and anti-depressant. In the
same way as il cleanses and opens the chest, enabling
the l11ngs toLake in a deeper breath. psychologically,
it allows for openness and more enthusiasm in life. IL
is a good oil to use when people arc feeling restricted
in their lilc choices. It helps people who arc timid
and want Lo make changes buL can't find the courage Lo do so. "ILevokes a vital. lree-spiritcd sense of
adventure.' (:-lojay. i\Ro\I n11rn \P\ rnR I IE.\l.INCTllE
SPIRIT,p. 69)
According to Suzy Chiazzari, i11Coi.orn Srrxrs,
eucalyptus clears the way for past-lilc recall and can
open the heart Louniversal love. ILenables people Lo
overcome jealousy and envy. Following the ancient
docl rinc of' signatures, lhe heart shape of' lhe leaves
indicates that it is a heart tonic and also cleanses old
psychological wounds lrorn the heart. easing depression and emotional heartaches from the past.
.\IEDITATIOl'\
FOR PCRIF\'INC
-:liis meditation came 10 me while silling under the

calyptus tree in my garden. LIis only a small treee in a tub-bu I I love sitting under it and gazing
the pattern its leaves make against the sky. You
-night be able 10 find a eucalyptus tree in rour local
ark and. on a hot clay. lie or sir under it, gazing al
the paucrn of the leaves as Ihey arc outlined against
he sky. As you idly gaze al this pattern, you might
also ask the Irec ilyou may pick some leaves. Crush
hem in your ringers and hold Ihem Loyour nose so
that you inhale the aroma. Tune in lo the tree in the
way described previously and be open lo any ideas,
pictures in your mind, or intuitive thoughts about
how the tree will help you. Or si: al home and put a
drop or Iwo of' Ihe csscn LiaI oi I in a burner.
This meditation is a way or using eucalyptus oil
Lo release any old grievances or grief' or hurls lrom
your hear I ccn Ire (chakra), your cmot ional sci L ILwil I
help lo heal jealousy or envy and the sort or hurtful
though ls that keep repeating in the mind, lry though
we might Lorelease the pattern. The symbolism given is that the room you visualize in the meditation is
the stale of' your inner heart. 13~,'spring-cleaning ii.
vou cleanse out old hurls.
AND I IEAU~C
TUE HEART
I. Breathe deeply and take your thoughts into your

heart centre. Find yourselfstanding in front ofa door.
Take some lime Losec it clcarlv, See the door handle
and the pattern ofthe wood. ls it pain led or polished?
Whal docs the handle ofthe door look like?
2. Turn the handle and open the door. Co through
and find yourself in a beautiful room, but ii is neglected and dusty. The room symbolizes lhe inside or
your heart chakra. the energy ccnl re or your hear I.
3. 1~1kcany cleaning materials you foncy-dustcrs.
polish, a bucket and mop. a vacuum cleaner. Wash
and clean the room, opening Ihe windows lo let in
the fresh air and sweep out the dust and rubbish.
Xlakc a bonfire outside 10 burn the rubbish.
4. When the room is clean. you look around and see
a display case with a small beautiful box in ii. II is a
golden box. decorated with hcautiful gemstones. bu!
Ihe gold is tarnished and Ihe gemstones need cleaning. so you clean them and the box.
5. You arc curious 10 sec what is in the box. II is locked.
but you hnd a key hanging on a silver chain around
your neck. ILfits the lock and vou open Ihe box. Inside.
you see your secret heart centre. This is the place where
your secret hopes and dreams arc, the ones only you
know about. and also the hurls and grievances you

have buried and hidden. IL looks neglected and dLrly.
\\'hal material is iL made from? Perhaps it is a pink
velvet heart. or sarin decorated with ribbon or lace. or
gemstones. \lake it as bcmuiful as you can and be as

sentimental as .\'OU like. I low can .\'OU mend it or dean
it? Do Ihis now. Then put this hear! centre back into
your ch cs I. You don't need Ihe golden box now. because you don '1 need lo lock your heart away, but you
can leave it in the room. You have cleaned and polished
your hear! and feel good. The power of visualization
is \'ery slrong and, combined with the eucalyptus oil.
will certainly help you lo find your hidden slrength
and enthusiasm agaiJl. This helps you lo connect with
your transpcrsonal self"and release old grief"and hurl.
6. Conclude your meditation in your usual way.
Everlasting (or Immortelle)

(I Ielich1ysu111 a11gustijoli11111)
Kcvnoles:
lcttin... (....,o. releasi1w.jorofri1w.
.
(......
(...,
Affirmation: l let ,~or111djeelsrlji'.
(...
(.....,
Everlasting is Ihe name given lo the dried flowers 1ha1 are put in winter arrangements. \\'hen the
clusters of"small yellow flowers arc dried they retain
their colour. so are cvcifasLing. whence Ibey get Iheir
name. Ii is a traditional European herb that grows
in ILaly and the i\lcditerrancan.11 has powerful healing actions and has similar properties 10chamomile.
Its oil is one of the most powerful aromatic essences
and stimulates the body's own ability 10 heal itself
11raises the spi ri Is. Because of iLsrclat ion ship lo Ihe
sunflower. ii is often called 'sun gold'.
Bol h evcrlast ing and cha mom ilc oils regulate l he
flow or qi. or life-force energy. F,vcrlasl ing also regulates the blood. ILis valuable for varicose veins and
headaches. Ii is excellent for severe bruising. as it diverts the [low of"blood away from the bruise and disperses it, In the same way. on the emotional level, it
can disperse deeply-held energy blockages. like jealousy. anger and resentment, which arc symptoms or
stagnanl qi, 'stuck energy'. Everlasting is extremely
valuable for those who cannot face deep painful

memories, and for those who find ii difficult to release their pain by sharing it with a healer. therapist
or svmpathct ic friend. EverlasLing assists the sufferer
Lo find inner sLrcngth and perseverance in coming Lo
terms with their feelings and memories. IL helps Lo
release unresolved
feelings and cmot ions l hat arc
dense and buried deep. IL can be used. in conjunct ion with psycho! hcrapy. Lo releases old defence
mechanisms
and is com fort ing ill the processing or
emotional l rauma ( www.natu resgi I'! .com),
Everlasting is known as one or the sacred oils.

encouraging spirituality and personal groll'lh. The
spiritual purpose or everlasting is lo make people
feel sale. It stimulates intuit ion and offers encouragement and inspiration for the spiritual journey.
A suitable visualization using everlasting oil is
based on the scvcn-chakra svsrcrn. those parts ofthe
subtle energy body where lhesc ancient memories
arc stored. Hy clearing the chakras of past gricr and
memories. 11'l' can mow on. The colours of' the chakra
flowers given here are from publicut ions or Ihe Bihar
School of Yoga. :-tungir, India (Swami Satyananda
Saraswat i, 1993). The visualization is one I experienced spontaneously when Leaching about chakras
and have often used since. You can do this process lv-
ing in the yoga relaxat ion pose. savasaiia. Be sure Lo

remain awake.
111 the ~ oga tradition referred lo. the colours of
the chakra flowers arc as follows. The names or the
chakras arc Ihe English ones. The root or lhe flower
is al lhe spine and Ihe llowcr opens Io Ihe [ron I of'! Ill'
body (except the base chakra and lhe crown). J lowever, it is said Ihat the posit ions of the flowers change
when vou concentrate on them. In meditation. the
chakras turn lo lace up Lo Heaven, bringing inspiration and spiritual light into the physical body and
your everyday Iile.
1
ROOT(al the base or the spine. lhe coccyx). Four dark

red petals (normally opening towards Ihe earth)
f\:\\'El. (below the navel), Six vcrrn iIion petals
SOLAR Pl.EX LS (above the navel). 'Icn brighL yellow
pc Lals
11 EA R'!' (al the ccn trc or the chest, sl igh Llylot he right
or the physical heart) twelve blue petals
Tl IR01\T-sixLeen purple petals
RRO\\' (or third eye)-two silver-grey petals
CRO\\'i\ (crown of the head. or slighLly ahovcj->
one thousand bright red petals (opening towards
Heaven).
SPIRITUALQUALITIESOF MEDITATION OILS - 27
C'l IM.:RA \llSt.;AllZAT101\
Before you do Ihis. take some Iirnc Lo remember the

petals and colours ofthe chakrus and where they arc.
or read iLon Loa Lape or rn.
I. Put a drop or Iwo ofeverlasting oil in Ihe vaporizer or on a tissue.
2. Take up the yoga relaxation position, savasana.
and take some time to relax into it. Attune to your
still. quiet and relaxed breath.
3. Take your attention to the base or the spine, the
coccyx. Visualize a dark red lotus blossom with four
petals. You arc looking al it Irorn above because the
root is under the spine on the floor. In your mind's
eye. examine the petals for any withering or insects
in the flower. They arc a symbol or a block or disrupt ion or the energy flow in the chakra. (Bees arc
01-\:I hey represen I I he gathering or nee! ar, or anuil.
a syrn hol or divine energy) Visualize the IighL or Ihe
sun shining into the [lower, Sec any withered petals
regenerating, insects !lying away. until the [lower is
perfect again.
4. i\love up Lo the position just below the navel.
Visualize a vermilion (bright orange) lotus with six
petals. As before. look deep in Lothe llowcr with your
mind's eye and check it for withering. bruising. or
insects. Visualize the sunlight shining in Lothe flower

until iLappears perfect.
5. Repeat this process with Ihe solar plexus chakra.
above the navel. seeing a bright yellow lotus with Len
petals. Repeal with the following chakras:
-the heart with a bright blue lotus with twelve
petals
-the throat with sixteen purple petals
-I he brow with Lwo silvery-grey petals
Then visualize the crown chakra. and see its thousand (or many) bright red petals opening Lo Ihe
light. The crown chakra is not usually blocked but it
may be closed, so open the petals. Visualize rhc light
ofthe sun shining into it.
6. Return through the chakras, lrom crown to
base. closing all the petals as you go through the visualization", This closes the chakras. Continue with
the relaxation until you feel ready to gel up. Roll onto
your side and Lake some time to sit up slowly.
*ILis very importunt Lodose the chakra before taking up
everyday activit ics, as leaving them open rnay lead Lo overscnsitivitv. A l'CIY beneficial therapy to dear old blocked or
stagnant energy is Zero Balancing. Itcan do this without experiencing old. painful memories. Sec wwwzerobalancing.com.
Frankincense
(Bos1vcllia cartetii)
l'eynote: tm11q11illity in contcmpiation. spiritual [reer/0111.
Affirmation: I fl/II rejreslied and n'111'11ed

in the Ugfit.
Frankincense oil is middle or the range in price and
can be found in good health food stores. JL is very
well known as incense. Its name derives lrom the
French wordjim1c meaning 'pure or 'real' and the
Latin incciulo, meaning 1 burn'. So its name means
real incense.
Frankincense is obtained from a tree that grows
in the Middle Fast and Africa, Small incisions arc
made in the trunk and a milky-white resin. olcorcsin,
seeps out. The resin hardens into an orange-brown
gum. The oil is obtained by steam distillation. It has
been used in religious ceremonies for centuries and
is probably the oldest known ingredient of incense.
The Egyptians used it in the temple incense they used
at sunset and also as a cosmetic and fumigant.\ vhon
burnt. it produced a black powder called kohl, used
by Egyptian women as eye shadow and eyeliner.
Jewish ceremonial incense also includes frankincense as one or the four main ingredients. IL is the
sweet-smelling incense. as the Bible tells us: 'Then the

T.ord said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices-gum resin, onycha and galbanum-and
pure frankincense.
all in equal amounts and make a rragr:int blend or
incense.the work of a perfumer. It is Lobe salted. pure
and sacred .... It shall be most holy to you .... Consider
it holy to the l.ord." (Exodus. 30: 34-35).
Mentioned twenty-two times in the l~ible, it was
one of' the gif'ts presented by the magi to the infant
Jesus Christ, as recognition olhis divinity.
Frankincense has an important effect on the mind
and spirit. stilling the agitation and worry often experienced in every day lilc and producing calmness.
stillness and tranquillitv It slows and deepens the
breath. helping Lo bring mind and body into the
state or unity necessary for meditation. Frankincense
holds some of the higher wisdom of the universe
and is valuable for connecting with the higher sell,
the eternal spirit. Use iL also if there arc seem to be
malevolent or negative energies attached Losomeone,
where its high vibration will assist in the removal or
these energies. LLcan also mend a tear or split in the
aura, caused by sudden trauma, shock or operations.
Throughout its history, frankincense has been
dedicated to many solar deities. such as the Babylonian sun god, l~aal, the Egvptian god, Ra. and the
SPIRITUALQUALITIES OF MEDITATION OILS - 29
Creek god. Apollo. ILenables the locusing of the mind

into the spiritual realms. For many years. I have used
it as the main ingredient of the oil I blend for work-
shops and meditation groups. \\'hen I add iLlo the

blend. I dedicate it Lo the Cosmic Christ. the Light.
For personal meditations. or when Leaching mcdiialion or facilitating gro11ps. I always begin by visualizing Light as a symbol of' Cod/Goddess/Source
of' r\11 Thal Is. This light forms a protection during
meditation, laking one lo the highest possible state
of consciousness. In many spiritual traditions Light
is regarded as Goel, or an aspect of' lhe Divine.
There is a light that shines beyond all Lhings on
earth. beyond us all, beyond the heavens. beyond the
highest. the very highest heavens. This is the T.ight
that shines in our heart." And in Si-John's Gospel (8
: 12). we read: 1 am the Light of' the World'. Wben
\loses saw Ilic burning bush in the desert. he saw ii
as a sign of' Cod's presence. (Exodus 3).
*Chandogl'a
Upanishad. ).).7 (l'c11gui11 Classics. 1965)

I
-ti:'
'
\lEDJTJ\TfOI\
ON l.ICI IT.
CSll\C: FRANl...:11\(l~:\SE011.
I. Use a few drops ofIrankinccnsc oil in your vaporizer or on a I issue. ~cgin lo brcat he slowly and gently. inhaling the aroma of' the oil. Observe the cool
air against yo11r nostrils as yo11breathe in and warm
breath as you breathe out.
2. As you breathe, begin 10 visualize light shining
above your head. You might sec il like a spotlight.
or a crystal or the blazing sun. Rays of' light shine
clown and around you. as though you are silling in
a pyramid of' light.!\ particularly bright ray shines
straight down through your crown chakra, down the
s11s1111111a (the central subtle spinal channel) and into
your heart chakra,
3. Continue lo hrcat he this IighLand sec it fiIiing every
atom and cell in your body. even genes in your D::\A.
As you scan your body and your chakras iLseems as if'
you arc radiating light like millions oftiny s1111s.With
each breath. fiU yourself' with more and more light.
4. lkgin lo sec a Ilame in your heart chakra. the light
that is hidden within you.
5. With the next three breaths. as you breathe in. alfirm. 1 am in the Light,' then The Light is in me'.
then 1 am Light'.
6. Continue with the threefold breath and aflirmations lor a short rime until you arc ready to close
your meditation,
closing in the usual 1l'ay.
When you arc worried and agitated. use a drop
of frankincense
on a Lissue. Alter a trying day. put a
drop or two in a warm bath before bedtime to help
to still the mind and release old memories. because
frankincense
helps to break lrom the past. V\lhen
worried about exams or interviews, put one or t110
drops or frankincense
on a tissue and keep it with
you. Tt will help you to still your LhoughLs and locus
on the quest ions you have Lo answer.
Ginere er
(7ingiher oj)1cina/is)
Kcvnotcs:
initiative. se/f~cs/('('11/.
COl/rct~'('
(/Jld SllCC!'SSill
'
')
<
achtevemeut.
MlirmaLion: I a111happy. co1ljide11t and successjul in
all I do.
Cinger is a tropical perennial herb. ILs rhizome is

popular in oriental cookery. and ginger tea with lemon is reputed to prevent colds and Ilu in winter. It
is very warming and invigoraLing and the powdered
root is yellow-orange. It was one of the first spices
Lo be brought to Europe lrom Asia along the Spice
Route and was widely used by both tile Greeks and
the Romans. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine and is reputed to prolong life. Its archetype is
the Chinese God or Longevity who wears a yellow
robe. the colour or the spice. The essential oil st imulatcs the appetite and brings warmth to those who
particularly Iccl the winter cold. Its energy inspires
people who have plent y olplans and ideas. but never
seem to find the energy to do thorn. In astrology, it
is associated with the planet 1\ la rs. renowned for iLs
rnerg~. force and vitalitv. ILis valuable when 11'carc
phvsicallv exhausted and alter stress.
Ginger gives courage in limes or difficultv and

helps the connection Lo the spiritual realms and the
angelic kingdom, especially when we seem Lo have
exhausted all our mental resources. It gives the courage lo change direction, lo move out of that comfortable rut that nevertheless is a source of boredom, in
spite of its comfortable familiarity. The archangelic
archct ype is 1lanael, ruler of.\ la rs and chicfIicutcnant ofArchangel Michael. I lis name means 'I le Who
Secs Goel'. I lanael is red and rules the blood circulation. I le is the Archangel of Transformation and
Assertiveness. TTc is a warrior angel. providing energy for successful life processes, reproduction and
growth, al all levels, both for mind. body and spirit
and all aspects of lilc. Cinger blends well with balsam fir, x lichael's oil, and can be used in the mcdital ion given earlier for Michael. Visualize I lanacl with
.\lichacl. bringing extra courage when you need lo
make lilC-changing plans.
\\'hen you have situations where you need Lo be
assertive. use ginger essential oil and med itale with
Hanucl. Perhaps it is necessary lo speak vour mind to
someone important. or family or friends. You need
lo stale your case clearly and firmly without aggression. The result needs Lo be for ihe highest good of
all involved, not just for selfish ends.
.\!EDIT\TIO~ FOR_\SSERTr\T:\ESS w ITI I

Gl'\GER OIL \.:\D \RCH.\:\GEL
I IAf\AEL
PuL a [e\I drops or ginger oil in your vaporizer and

prepare for meditation in vour usual way. If you
have sensitive skin, ginger can irritate it, so avoid ii
directly on the skin.
I. BreaLhing gently and slowly. visualize a path of
pure light in fronl of you. Follow the path and find
yourself in a beautiful garden with roses of different
shades oll lanacl's red colour. Sil down upon a bcncv
put rcadv for you. Call to Archangel 1lanacl for help
and advice in the situa: ion \'OU wish lo resolve.
2. Become aware ofu shining figure in beau Iiful shades
of red. The vibrations emanating from him arc warm
and fill you with courage. Mentally talk lo 1lanael
about the situation you wan! 10 change in a way that
wil I be for Ihe hizhcst
sood or cvcrvonc
involved .
t"
L'I
3. Sil silently. listening for advice and ideas, or observing what pictures or impressions come in Loyour
mind. You may just feel optimistic and know things
will work out right.
4. \\'hen ~'OU arc ready lo leave, thank I lanacl and
walk Olli of the gardc.n following your path of light,
to find yourselfback in your body. lk aware ofyour
breath before closing your meditation.
Hyssop
(I lyssopus ojjicinalis)
Keynote: p11rijirntio11. protccuon. w1dji1ljil111e11/.
Affirmation: I a111ahl'ay.s in the right place at the right
time and ahrnys dil'i11c0 protected.
1
1 lyssop is sl rong and should

ah1ays be diluted
in vegetable oil Lo use on the skin. II may only be
found al yom local aroma Ihcrapist or herbalist. TL is
a spi ri luallv-puri rying herb. men Lioned Lwclvc limes
in the Bible. and is \\';JS one or the biller herbs used
Lo purilv Solomon's temple. In the first Passover. it
was used Lo mark the doors with blood. so lhe angel or death would pass over the houses. Its name
comes lrom its ancient Hebrew name. ezob. meaning holy herb. Traditionally, it is known as an herb
or protection and is lhough! lo defend both people
and buildings lrom negative energy. hence its USC in
the purification ofSolomon's temple. ll is a hot 'herb
of lire, ruled by Mars, and stimulates and warms
weak. depleted energy. especially good for winter
chest infections. ILwarms and 'opens' the chest and
invigorates the nervous system, allowing people Lo
feel more enthusiastic and less mclancholv ILs pmc,
alchemical fire (spirit) action purges ncgaLi1i1y from
the soul and empowers it. allowing the gold of its

spiritual nature lo shine.
'Sprinkle me, 0 l.ord. with hyssop. and I shall be
purified: wash me and I shall IJl whiter than snow."
SP:\CECl.E.\Rli\C
\\'ITll llYSSOPOll..
I lvssop is an ideal oil lo use for space clearing, when

you want Locleanse a room for a spiritual workshop.
and ii would work very well with frankincense lor
this. You can also use hyssop lo cleanse the l'Jlcrgy or
a new house or llat.
I. Thoroughly clean the room or house and ii' you
think there is really dark energy there, you can sprinklc pure sea sail in each corner of' the room.
2. Use lour or five drops of hyssop oil and vaporize
lor an hour or until the oil has evaporated.
3. Clean up the sail and oprn lhr windows and
doors. allowing f'resh air and renewed energy in lo the
room. If it's a house. vou may want to do each room
in turn, You can also plav some new age meditation
music. Choose spiritual music lo encourage angelic
and spiritual energy in lo the room or building.
*Fro1111he1\spl'1gl's .\It'. said durin- the a11oi111i11gof' lilt'
sick (Prc-vurican ll Roman Rill'. quoted in \\'ornnod,
1111
11!\(,!( 1-;TIll\\ I.''>).
~5kw-,i_
Jasmine
(Jas111i1111111l!07cinalis)
Keynote: desire. crealiFily and han11011y.
Affirmation: I m11in /1111ewith ''0' spiri/11ality. II inspires and guides
111e.
Jasmine is very expensive and may be difficult to

line!. This 'Queen of the :\igh1' is originally lrom
China and Asia and is an ingredient of Chinese jasmine tea. \\'hen I was in India, many or the locals
wore wreaths or it in their hair or around Iheir necks
for parties and celebrations. The little star starshaped llowcrs scent ihc evening air on warm summer nights and they arc collected Ihen when their
seen I is Ihe st rongesl. Dillicult yin extracting the oil
is the cause ofits l1igh price. Ii lakes large quantities
olIlowcrs lo extract the oil in a process called enlleuragc. Flowers are laid on a thin layer or animal fat,
which gradually becomes saturated with the essence
and ii is Ihen treated with alcohol.
IL is a very leng1 hy process and most jasmine is
an absolute. extracted with solvent. The oil may have
Lo be specially ordered for you and. because of the
cost. only use one drop in a meditation blend, or by
34 - ESSENTIALOILSAND MEDITATION
itself' for special use. You can also use jasmine oil as
a perfume if' you like it. Put one or 111'0drops oljasmine absolute in one teaspoon (Smls) of vegetable
oil. like almond. peach kernel or apricot and keep in
a dropper boll le. You can then put a drop inside the
wrists or ankles or on Ihe ptt lsc spots by the neck.
These places arc by arteries, and the perfume oil is
quickly absorbed into ihc blood stream and carried
around the body. II'you like its scent, you could wear
this when concentrating on creative projects.
Jasmine oil relaxes and calms the nerves. It is an
excellent oil to use when you are sulfrring from nervous anxiety, restlessness and depression and ii is
said Lo help develop spirituality. TLis reputed lo call
in angels and help in rhe connection Lojoy. Jasmine
is associated with fcuility and creativity and can
be used in honour or Laksh!JJ.i__gQ_dd~1.
prosperity, abundaiice and business success. I use 1L
~ps
and when planning them. Lakshmi
is the consort of' the I lindu God. Vishnu. IL is said
that Sita. the consort of Rama in the Indian epic,
The the Ua111<01a11a, is an incarnation of' Lakshmi. In
this Lale. Rama. an incarnation ofVishnu. is exiled.
I Iis wife, Sita. insists on accompanying him Lo the
forest. where he must stay tor fourteen years. She is
kidnapped by a wicked demon. Ravana, and taken
to the island of Lanka. Rama goes to war. aided by

l lanuman. the monkey Cod. rescues Sita and kills
the wicked demon. Then Rama and Sita return lo
their citv, the exile over. I lindus celebrate this event
at Diwali, the Festival of Lights. in the autumn. Ln
Asian shops and restaurants. somewhere in the
back. you will often sec a picture or imagc or her.
with burning incense. The proprietors always know
whom to rely on for their success in business! Creativity and success arc an important and necessary
part in any business.
'Giver or boons art thou to all:

Formidable terror to the wicked:
Remover or all pain and sorrow,
Oh, Devi, salutations Lo thee."
Lakshmi, cnt hroned on a lotus blossom, has
four arms. The upper pair each hold a lotus and the
lower two give blessings and abundance. She is olten depicted with a stream or coins llowi.ng from her
hands. She is also known as mother or the world,
l.akarnata.
for a new business project or venture, use a drop
or two ofjasmine oil as you meditate for guidance
for creativity and inspiration.
"Invocation Lo Lakshmi. in the ,\lalwlaks111islo/ra.
:vt WlTATLOl\ FOR CR.Ei\Tl\'ITY

Al\D l\EW PROJECTS
I. Place one or l WO drops or jasmine oil in your
vaporizer or diffuser.
2. Begin lo breathe and centre yourself Then visualize vourself being surrounded by Light. Breathe
in Light until you arc filled and surrounded by LighL
and you lccl that you are radiating l.ight and all the
cells of your body shine like millions oftiny suns.
3. Take ~-our attention into your heart centre and
visualize there a beautiful lotus blossom. It is your
centre ofcrcat ivi: \'. You could also visualize Lakshmi
as a beautiful woman with four arms. showering you
\\'i lh blessings.
4.. PuL the idea ofvour project in the centre or the lotus and wai: in the silence for any ideas. pictures. and
intuitive thoughts that come lo you. Keep \'isualizing
your project in the lotus light until you feel you have
finished. Then conclude vour meditation.
5. Remember that sometimes the ideas come later. lk open lo any dreams or waking thoughts, the
things people might say to you. Spiritual guidance is
often very subtle and 11'C can miss it. Write down in
your notebook what you remember. You may spend
a week or a month on get Iing ideas for a 11c1\' project,
or even longer on major projects.
There is also an abundance

mantra for Lakshmi that can be used with the jasmine oil. It is 0111
Shri111 ,\Iaha Laksh11101eiS1Faha (pronunciation: Om
Shrecm mah ha l.aksh-rncc-vci swah-ha).

Traditionally. a chant is repealed for forty days.
twice a dav. for rwcnrv. minutes al a time-lhal
is.
morning and cvcning= or it can be repealed silently
whenever you have the opportunity, as when dril'ing
or Lravelling by I rain or bus.
0111 is the seed sound for the sixth chakra (the
brow cent re) and is lhe place where masculine and
feminine energy unites. Shri111 is the seed sound for
the principle ofabundance, personified bl' 1.akshmi.
,\laha means great. both in quantity and quality, but
is in keeping with divine law. For instance. someone
might gi1e }Otl girts hut vou wouldn't want lo he the
receiver of' stolen goods. so Ihis mantra keeps you
within divine right law. J.aks/1111iis the principle of'
abundance and the personification olwcalth. S111a/w
means 1 salute' and manifests energy al the solar
plexus chakra, ilwrehy bringing it into everyday
munifcsration. ll also provides a feminine ending Lo
the mantra.
L'sing this mantra is reputed to process new lclels of' energy through the chakras. (Ashley-Farrand.
I IE.II.I~(; ;_t l'ITR IS).
Lavender
(Lavandula oj)irinalis)
Kevnotcs: ca/111.be al ease 11ithoncsel[. inner pettc
Affirmation: I a111jilfed 11ith divine light and peace.
l.avcnder is very well known as it gro11swiddy in Europe and the ll lcditcrrancan and has been introduced
to most parts of the world. It grows well on poor soils
and survives drought conditions. lts dried flowers
are used in scented bags in drawers and wardrobes.
The oil is inexpensive and can be bought almost
anywhere. but refer lo the Lat in name on Ihe label to
make sure you are buying genuine oil rather than na1ure-idcnt ical oil, which is syn Ihet ic. Lavender lowers
blood pressure and slows the heart rate, slows palpitations and is a very useful oil lo aid relaxation. II can
ease panic attacks. Use one or two drops with a drop
of' rose 0110 on a tissue under the pillow alter travelling. keeping odd hours, or in jct lag.
l.avcndcr was mentioned by Dioscorides. and
I lildegard or Hingen recommended il for maintaining a pure character. Lavender has a reputation par
excellence for healing. lt is an excellent oil lo use for
people who have a lot or creative potential but lack
the courage to follow ii up. lt is also useful for those
who gel stuck in the past and can 1 move on due to

old habits. use it for lhose occasions when old routines and practices no longer serve their purpose.
Lavender is Lhe essential oil 'rescue remedy' and can
be kept in the car, handbag or briefcase,
Lavender has the ability to aid spiritual growth
by producing a meditative stale and iLprovides psychic protection. ILbrings about unity bet ween body.
mind and spirit, It is good oil in a meditation blend.
because it is a psychic cleanser for the meditation
pace and for those who will be meditating there.
It slows down menial chatter and calms stressful
breathing so that the breath becomes even and slower, inducing a better stale for meditation, For beginners in meditation, or for those who like Lo practise
mindfulness or breath meditation, inhale lavender
oil when meditation feels more difficult lban usual.
t'I I EDITATION WIT! I THE .BREJ\TlI
..\simple meditation technique in many traditions is
focusing on your breath, so this meditation is based
on watching the breath.
I. Prepare your diffuser with lavender oil. Two or
three drops will be enough lo create the right almosphcrc. Sil either in a straight-backed chair or
any suitable meditation pose on the lloor. Roll your

shoulders back and down and lill your chest Lo enable lhe brcat h Lollow freely.
2. Close your eyes and begiJ1 to breathe gently and
silently, xlake sure your thoughts arc completely
centred on your breath and 'watch' each breath as it
comes and goes. Keeping your back and chest lifted.
but not tense and st ill, watch the breath as iLcomes
into the nostrils, and goes down the throat and chest.
Feel lhe ribs move ouL followed by lhe navel as the
breath pushes on Lo Ihe diaphragm. When you feel
the natural impulse Lobreathe out, do so and 'watch'
the navel lall. then the ribs and chest come in. Breathe
in again when you leel the impulse lo do so. bui remember not Lohold lhe brcat h al any time. A similar
way to do this is Lonotice each breath al the lip oft lie
nose as lhe brcat h comes in and goes out.
1. Continue lo do this with every breath as ii comes
and goes. II'you get out of breath or lcel tense, try Lo
relax more. lf'lhc mind wanders.just bring iLback lo
the breathing.
4. At lirsl you might only be able lo do this breathing meditation lor five minutes. but you can gradual!~build it up until you can do it for twcnf y minutes.
You will find that you will begin Lo !eel calmer and
more refreshed. 1\ leditarion is best done even' dav.
hut once a week is better than nothing. Another

breathing meditation is to count each breath from
one to ten and then start again at one. Do this for up
tot-went)' minutes at a time.
5. Finish your meditation by releasing your aucntion on the breath, open your eyes and move around
the room so you feel grounded again. A drink of water can also help you to Icel centred and grounded
and prevent the dreamy kcling that might somel irncs follow meditation.
watching the breath' can also be done with the
eyes open ilyou arc lired or stressed. It can be done in
traffic jams or in long queues to stay calm. \'\'hen you
breathe in. silently say 'calm'. and when you breathe
out, say 'relax'. ILis also a good practice if"you can't
sleep. just lie in bed and watch each breath.
Mandarin
(Citrus reticnlata)
Keynotes: ge11!lencss. sweet ness of spirit. joy of Ihe inner child.
Affirmation: I do 1ro11de1jitl wot]: in a 1vo11de1ji1I m~y
and I also find time [or rest.Jim andplay.
Mandarin, or tangerine, oil is easily available and inexpensive. This variety of the citrus family is native to
China and gets its name from the fact lhat it was lraditionally presented to the mandarin as a symbol or
good luck health and wealth. ILis a traditional girt atChinese New Year, when il is given for good luck and
wealth in the coming year. In Japan. legends about
the fruit of"the cvcrlastins;~ Irazrant
tree arc rhousht
u
~
Lo refer to the mandarin tree. The fruit is sweet and
tangy and the essential oil is expressed from the peel.
ll is refreshing and rejuvenating, soothes the nervous
system and reduces stress and tension, dispelling depression, intolerance and anxiety. It is relaxing and
supportive for those who arc workaholics and cannot leave their work behind.
Mandarin is often referred LO as 'the lit Lieheart of
the sun' or 'nature's sunshine", bringing light heartedness lo the drudgery or every day tasks. IL-rcawak-
ens a sense of joy and brings a sense of respect Loall

of life. This is especially true during the dark days of'
the Winler Solstice, Christmas and New Year. when
mandarins arc available. \'ou mav have found the
Lraditional mandarin orange in the toe of the Christmas stocking you had as a child. The fresh fruitiness
of the oil. when blended with cinnamon. ccdarwood,
pine, or balsam fir, cheers our spirits as we associate
the scent with celebrations and parties.
RfLAXATION
wrru
~IJ\NDARII\ 011.
'.'vlandarin oil is suitable when you need to relax and

let go of some of' Ihe heaviness and rcsponsibil itics of'
everyday work lilc. Use it in the following way.
J.
Lie on the lloor in the yoga relaxation pose.
savasatut, Play relaxing new new-age music designed
specifically for the purpose.
2. l~urn a fell' drops of mandarin oil Focus your
attention on the brcai h of' relaxation. the easy breath
(known in yoga as sukh pm11aya111a). In this breath.
when you arc relaxed. the navel is rising up to Ihe
ceiling as you breathe in. foiling back towards the
floor as you breathe out. Keep all your attention on
this breath, noticing each and every breath, navel rising. navel foiling.
3. Remain awake. The benefits of relaxation are
different from sleep. Relaxation is a form of meditation. or concentration.
4. Continue with this for twenLy or thin yminutes.
At times of' great stress and tension. daily relaxation can make all the difference Loyom health and
well-being.
May Chang
(Li/sea cubeha)
Keynotes: self Jo1gil'e11ess. healing. and compassion
Alfinnat ion: I fo1gil'e 111yselfand I jingi\le others.
xlay Chang is cultivated in China and especially
Taiwan. ILis not easy Lo find as an essential oil but
is widely used in soap, cosrnet ics, deodorants. air
fresheners and. worldwide, as a source of natural citral. Its lemony fragrance is refreshing, upJifring and
stimulating.
I associate the aroma with Kuan Yin, the Chinese
Goddess ofx lercy and Compassion who embodies
the Divine Feminine. an exquisite essence of pure
unwavering compassion. In China. Japan, Vietnam
and Korea. her temples arc often found by rivers or
the seashore and in places or natural beauty. She is
known as the 'Compassionate One' and is involved
in the everyday concerns or men and women. v\lhen
called upon. she brings divine help lo any difficult
situation. In the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. she is
the feminine aspect of Avalokitcsvara, the male Bodhisal lva or compassion. Kwan Yin is popular as a
Bodhisal lva among Buddhists.
TRADITIONAL ,\IEDlTATION ON 1'UAN YIN
This is a traditional meditation, helping lo develop

our qualities or mercy and compassion. IL helps Lo
bring a sense of peace in lo our own world.
I. vaporize a drop or lwoof may chang csscnt ial oil
or inhale from a tissue.
2. J\Uunc to your breathing. Become still and centred.
3. Imagine it is night, YouarcsiLLingovcrlookingthc
sea. The night is warm and still and the moon is lull.
Tt is reflected in lhe sl ill waler and its light forms a
pal h across the sea. As you gaze al the moon, you lee!
calm, serene and joyrul.
4. The moon grows brighter and brighter. In it you
sec the form or the goddess Kuan Yin, surrounded
by an aura of pure pearly light. You sec her clearly
as she smiles al you and radiates the qualities or serenity and compassion. As these qualities wash over
you and 11.LI you, you realize lhaL compassion towards
others heals you also, and that bearing grudges and
bcingjudgmcnlal only harms you and no-one else.
5. Repeat her name softly lo yourselfand observe the
fcclings olpcacc and joy that fill you as you do this.
6. l\ow Kuan Yin begins lo leave. The moon is about
Losci and, as it disappears across the horizon. Kuun
Yin also goes. She grows smaller and smaller, until all
you sec is a small sphere like a pearl.
8. Pearls too arc lrom the sea. Oysters grow beautiful

zcrns
around the "<rril that irritates them. Thcv.. 0erow
~
into pearls, the symbol of wisdom. In the same way.
the experiences that cause us Lobe irritable and critical
can help us Lodevelop compassion and wisdom, like
pearls. Serenil y and compassion Gill grow from our
tears and become like pearls or wisdom and beau! y.
9. Conclude your meditation but repeal it often Lo
benefit from its qualities of peace. tranquillity and
compassion. To gain the benefits of peace and calm,
this meditation should be practised regularly.
Once I was given a forgiveness meditation, altriburcd to Jack Kornfield, a writer about HuddhjsL
mindfulness meditation. This can also be used with
Kuan Yin's at tributes of compassion and mercy.
Lforgil'e all those people who haw hurt or oJlc'nd!'d 111!'.
I ask fo1givrness of (name) (all those people) 11'110I
have offended. I fo1gil'e 111e.
We needn't condone the actions but we can torcivc
0
the individual. Self-forgiveness is also very healing and
releasing. When we can manage lo forgive both ourselves and others, ii helps to dissolve some ofthe darkness and resentment that accumulates around us all.
- -- --- ---
Myrrh
(Coin tn iphora inyrrtm)
Keynote: tra11quillity and peace.
Affirmation: I attune to Ill)' soul and each dtl)1 fjollo11
its guidance. I connect to !1!fi11itc Ivisdom and all is
possible.
Myrrh is a resin collected from a shrub in the :-lliddlc

East. India and North Africa. The word is derived
from an Arabic word. mun, meaning bitter. IL belongs
to the same botanical family as frankincense. The esscntial oil is reddish brown and is lhick and sticky
and is another or the essences reputed lo enhance
and strengthen spirituality. :\tyrrh was important lo
the ancient Egyptians. who used it in unguents and
as a funeral incense lo burn lor the dead. ILwas said
lo come from the tears or I lorus, the falcon-headed
god. The ancient Hebrews drank it with wine lo raise
their consciousness for religious ceremonies. It was
SO precious and valued lhat ii was one or lhe gifLSor
the i\ tagi lo lhe infant Jesus and it was also used alter
the crucifixion.
'Nicodemus brought a mixture or myrrh and aloes. about seventy-five pounds ..... the !WOor thorn
wrapped it, with the spices, in strips or linen. This
was in accordance with the Jewish burial customs.'

(St John 19: 39)
In addition to its spiritual qualities. myrrh also
strengthens rhc rool chakra, helping rhe sensitive
mcditator Lo remain in contact with the earth while
making spiritual contact. It calms the nervous system and brings about tranquillity. It stills intrusive
mental chatter, enabling deeper meditation. Its use
in ancient limes as a funeral herb, allowing release
of sorrow and grieL is also reflected in its use to help
close wounds ofrejection and loss. ILhelps to build
the bridge between heaven and earth, bringing the
two worlds closer LogeLher.As we make the link with
our soul. om higher self, we remember who we arc
and what we came lo Earth to do.
1\lEDTTATION WIT! 11\IYRRH
/311ildi11gthe bridge Iv your /-lighff Self
01011rpe1ji'c/ed or ideal sclj)
I. l'ut a drop or two of myrrh on a tissue or in your

diffuser. As the scent of the myrrh begins Lo fill the
air. tune in lo your breathing. l~e aware of' each and
every breath. rr the mind wanders bring it back.
2. As you breathe. Ced yourself surrounded and
filled with Light.
3. Gaze into the Light and find yourself in a beauiiful garden. It's a large garden, like a park with long.
grassy vistas and magnificent trees. There are beautiful llowerbeds and a lake with stalely swans. Sil by
the lake on a seal you find there.
4. You sec coming towards you a beautiful being of
Light. IL has your face, a beautiful face, the one you
might sec in ~1our visualizations when you meditate
about yourself'. It is much more beautiful than the
one you might sec in the mirror every day This is the
face of your higher sell, your perfected self.
5. The being of light comes towards you and its
light begins to blend and merge with you. You and
your higher self become as one. You arc filled with
peace and tranquilliry as you blend together.
6. Ask any questions Ihal concern you about your
earth lilc. Wail lor an answer. ff you do not gel one
now, iLmay come later, as a dream, waking thought
or ins pi ration.
7. When you arc ready, release the visualization and
once again become aware of' your breathing. Make
sure you arc grounded before returning Loyour every
day concerns. You have now built the bridge bet ween
you and your higher self and should find it easier Lo
connect with your intuition, Repeat the meditation
whenever you need inspiration in your life,
Nard, Spikenard
(Na rdostachys Ja ta ma nsi)
Keynote: devotion, peace. stability. release
Affirmation: L a111divine Peace.
This oil is rare and expensive, usually only available
from specialist aromatherapy suppliers. V\lhcn purchasing it. do make sure it is Nardostachysjatnmansi
thar you get. as spike lavender (La11a11d11/aspica) is
also sometimes called spikcnard.
Spikenard is native to the Himalayas and is found
growing wild in Nepal, Bhutan and Sikkim. II groll's
al altitudes between three thousand and five thousand metres. The oil is obtained lrom the rhizome.
pikcnard is one of the most ancient and precious of
all aromatics, said lo be one or the holiest and highest-vibrating substances on the planet and lo have
many rare and esoteric qualities. ILwas valued in the
xliddle East and Mediterranean regions in antiquity.
The ancient Egyptians, Hebrews, and I lindus used iL
for ritual and medical use. II is men Iion ed in Ihe Song
of Songs: 'Your plants arc an orchard of pomegranates. with choice fruits, with henna and nard, nard
and saffron with every kind of incense' (4: 14).
Spikcnard is an oil Lo connect with the divine
feminine, bringing deep inner peace and the understanding that humanity forms a bridge between
heaven and earth. It helps in linding that sacred
space we all have within, the peace beyond all understanding, found in meditation. JJ is rejuvenating
and excellent Lo use when tension and anxiety make
meditation difficult. IL assists the release or old lea rs
and emotional blocks that have been buried deep,
bringing freedom of spirit. Spikcnard is useful when
people arc nearing death. Spiritually. ii helps lo keep
in mind the Irue purpose on earth and Lorealize Ihat
our ordinary. everyday Li\'CSarc not divorced from iL.
The oil is useful when searching for Ihe true spiritual
pal h, especially when there is confusion. lt is helpful for aid workers and those who arc deeply allcctcd
bv the strife and turmoil seen on news broadcasts or
surrounded by crises.
Another USC or spikcnard is LO deepen devotion
to a spiritual teacher. ivlary 1'\'\agdalrne used ii 10
anoint Christ 's feel before the crucifixion and it is
seen as evidence of her devotion Lo him and her understanding or his approaching death.
'Then ~lary Look about a pint of pure nard. an
expensive perfume: she poured it on Jesus' feel and
wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was rilled
with the fragrance ofthe perfume (St John 12: 3).
Recent works about J\lary \lagdalene refer to

nard as a symbol or the highest spiritual essence:
The oil or spikenard. anoints us all as sons and
daughters or t he king and queen-royal offspring in
our own right. all or one blood. all children of' the
royal parcnts=-Fat her-Mot her Cod.' ('1'1 IE SEc1n:-r
Tr. \Cl nxc:s OF i'l'l \I(\' MAC:D.\l.ENE.
p.85)
The authors of' the book also sec the use ofspikenard as the anointing or 'Christing' of' Jesus, as he
moved into the final part or his destiny. There is also
an ancient lradiiion lhat P. lary P. lagdalcnc and Jesus
were marricd.Xard is said to clean and purify the
chakras as part or the rit ual or preparation for the
sacred marriage. the Herios Ctunos. In the popular
understanding or the scvcn-chakra system. chakras
start al the nutladhava chakra, al the base or the
spine. Another tradition suggests lhe chakras begin
under the !Cc! and rise through the spine through the
sus111111w ntuli, the subtle spinal channel and ascend
above the crown chakra. sahusram, This is suggested
as lhe reason \la ry anoi rued Jesus feet. Anether
Eastern tradition is kissing or touching the leer of'
lhe guru as a sign of' respect. II is certain lrom the
Bible that spikenard (nard) had an important part to
play in lhr story leading up lo lhe crucifixion. ILwas
also one or the spiccs x lary \ lagdalcnc was laking lo
Jesus' tomb. when she found he had arisen.

In 2004. a worldwide experiment using nard
was conducted by James Twyman. through his website. www.cmissaryollight.corn.
Spiritual changes
noted by respondents to the experiment included:
oneness with the Creator.
con ncction lo the 11igher Self'
connection Lonew dimensions
leeling the presence olasccndcd masters and angds.
A majority of users reported that it brought through
the feminine aspects or the Divine.
To use nard oil. you can blend ii in a high quality
vegetable oil such as sesame orjojoba, in proportion
or two drops nard lo lOmls jojoba or sesame (not
cooking oil). Apply a drop to lhe nostrils or sniff on
a tissue before meditating.
Use 1 he oil before you sleep for enhanced or
lucid dreaming; keep some oil with you Lo use
during the day at Limes of' shock or stress; massage
your ltet or lhe feet or a friend or partner; place one
drop over the heart chakra when meditating on the
Divine Presence: use on the third eye (brow chakra)
in meditation. or place a drop on the inner ankles
or wrists. Spikcnard opens the heart and clears
away doubts and can always he used to dedicate
meditation LoFather-Mother God.
perfume used Lo revive after fointing fits and relieve

headaches in Victorian Limes.
(Citrus a11m11liw11)
Ncroli's main benefit is as a relaxant and for
reviving
the nervous svstcm. It helps lo relieve the
Kcvnotes: ligh1111ssof spirtt, rege11emlio11aiul rcncwa!
blocked
emotions
or angn and resentment when
Affirmation: I O!!I relaxed atu! nji1shed a11djilled wil]!
thcv
have
been
iunorcd
and denied. :\lthowrht' known
.,,
\'I
ligh1. peace wuljoy.
as an aphrodisiac, it also has a very spiritual quality.
Neroli oil is vrry expensive so should be used very
ILunifies the different levels and layers of' the subtle
sparingly in the vaporizer. There are cheap adultcrbodies. enabling them lo come together in unity. The
atcd versions available, so check the label for the
white pure colour ofthe flowers contains all the coLatin name Lomake sure or getting a good quality.
lours or the speer rum. absorbed (rom the Iigh l. thereJcrol i is extracted from Lhe sweet-scented nowlore it resonates with all the chakras. bringing them
crs or the bitter, or Se vi Ile. orange lrec, ll~ expense is in Io uni l1wi lh lhe aura aficr shock and lraurna. Valdue to the large number or Ilowers needed lo make
erie Ann vvorwood. writing in T111
..i:1t1rn1:-:T11i:.11T'\~.
it. ILhas a very sweet and euphoric aroma and a clear
notes that its purit~ touchcs the angelic realm and it
golden colour. The llowers arc white and verv, lrahas one or the highest vibrations. as its pure whitec
grant and the tree produces more than one essential
ness is tilled with light. It liberates the spirit, bringoil. Petitgrain is extracted from the leaves and 111igs ing love and peace.
and bi ucr orange oi I is expressed lrorn lhe rind of'
\\'ith its affinit )'LO spirit. lo purit y and innocence.
the fruit.
Lo the angelic kingdom, and lo its white light and
Neroli has feminine qualities and orange blosgolden colour. it immediately suggests :\rchangcl
som is the flower associated with bridal headdresses
Gabriel. On the Tree or l.ilc model. Cubricls place is
and carried in bridal bouquets to symbolize puritv
al the base chakra and reproduct ivc area. The sweet
and innocence. It is named alter a princess olNcrola
perfume or its oil or flowers used in marriage suggests
in ILaly who used it as a perfume. It was also a connew beginnings and rebirth into a new stage or lilc.
stituent or cau-dc-Colognc. a popular rcvitalizinj;
~ larriagc or part nership or ncll' relat ionships are a
Neroli
rile of passage. injtialinga new phase of'rcsponsibilit y

when moving on in Loadulthood after youth. Ncroli
is useful Lo connect in meditation 11 ith Archangel
Gabriel when you arc focing new responsibilities.
TL creates a different experience from the meet in gs
with Archangels .:\lichacl and llanacl. where you
need courage, assertiveness and inspiration Lo make
changes. With ncroli. lhe decisions arc made. the
promises and contracts established. You arc feeling
a jovful apprehension rather than a Limid or [earful
one. All you need now is lo be able to relax into the
enthusiasm for a new phase oflili.
The most economical way lo use ncroli oil is Lo
pul one drop Oil a lissue and inhale the aroma. Ir
you are feeling extravagant. you can use two or three
drops in the vaporizer or diffuser.
,\IEDTTATION WITI I ARCI !ANCEL GABRJ.EL

FOR NEW .BECINNTKGS
II' lhis is for a marriage or permanent partnership.

or relat ionship, your partner could also be involved
with this meditation. You could record the instructions and do ii together.
I. Sil quietly with the ncro!i oil on a tissue or in
a vaporizer. Allow your brcalhing Lo become slow
and gent le. Become aware or a feeling of deep relaxal ion filling you. As your thoughts become still, your
breathing becomes deeper.
2. As you relax, you become aware of a shining angel. f\ rchangcl Gabriel. be lore you. You rn igh Lsee iLis
a being ollight, or as convent ionally seen in pictures.
lls aura is pure and light, scinLillaling with golden
highlights and iL is surrounded by rays or lighl or
these colours.
3. The lighL expands and surrounds you. until you
are bathed in pure white and golden light. You [eel
filled with joy and peace. You are aware that you have
come Loa turning point in your life and iLis right for
you. Express any promises you want lo make.
4. Gabriel gives you a branch of orange blossom as
a symbol or this moment,
When you arc ready. conclude your meditation.
Patchouli
(Pogustcmon cabiin)
Keynotes: gro1111di11g.i11vigomfi11g. s/i11111/ati11g.
Affirmation: I a111grounded and centred in lije.
The essential oil is inexpensive and should be easy
to lind. Parchouli is a bushy perennial herb that
originates from South-east Fasl Asia. LLgrm\'s wild
in Java and Sumatra at an altitude of nine to eighteen hundred metres. The leaves have a strong aroma
and arc dried for three days before being distilled.
ILis used in temples as incense and it grounds and
centres the mind in preparation lor meditation. Tts
resonance with the base (root) chakra connects us
with the natural beauty olXlothcr Earth. the planet
we live on. Its scent is smoky and earthy. ll is also a
powerful insect deterrent and. for that reason. dried
patchouli leaves were used in the nineteenth century
for protect ing shawls and fabrics lrom India and I ill'
cast that were destined for Europe.
The scent of patchouli is reminiscent of the hippy era ofthe 1960s and 1970s when the freethinking
hippies. who experimented with different aromas or
incense, favoured it. They used it to liberate themselves from the old boundaries of' the pre-war and
post-war era. H was also widely used as a scent and

insect deterrent in the eastern-style tashions of' the
time.
II is a very good cssent ial oil to use for those who
arc too dreamy. as ii helps 10 ground them. Its aroma
also has the repuiat ion ofsharpening Ihe mind when.
after meditation, 11'cneed Locontinue with everyday
things. Arter we have been inspired by the ideas that
come in meditation. it helps us lo take the actions
Lhal will make them happen. VViLhits strong aroma.
some might prefer Lo blend patchouli with other essential oils. II blends well with may chang. jasmine
and sandalwood and also mandarin and lemon.
\I EDITi\TIOf'\
\VJTI I P:\TCI IOUl.I
Peppermint
jilr those whoJl'el dreallly and 1111m11ncctl'd

with cvcrvda
.
. '.! thill"S.
(... atul jor oro1111di1/0'
I. Inhale patchouli oil from a tissue or use in your
vaporizer or diffuser.
2. Close your eyes and Lake your attention to the
root chakra at the base ofthe spine, the coccyx (tailbone). This chakra is t rad it ionally associated with
the element olcarth,
3. Begin lo visualize your legs becoming like the
trunk or a tree.
4. Breathe Olli and see your kct growing roots or
energy. like Illamen ls or light that stretch down into
the earth. \\'ith each out breath. see these roots grow
right down through the plants. roots and earth. rocks.
crystals and gemstones and deep into the cent re oft he
earth. lo the energy olils core. Visualize the strength
and xlahilil yof I he planet Iiiling your roots or light.
5. Hreathing in. draw that energy and strength
back up through the root like filaments and into Lo
the base of Ihe spi nc.
6. Continue this breathing and visualization technique a kw more Limes.
7. Finally. a~ you breathe in. bring your attention
up to the solar plexus chakra, then the heart chakra
Loclose your meditation.
<."'i
(Men/ ha pipenta)
(....,
Keynote: attention. coucenttutlon. vitality

Mlirmal ion: 1 a111nji-cshcd and inl'igomtcd. I a111a/Jle
to coucentuue aJI(/ / a/11 Cl)'Sknow th right thing lo do
and I make the right decisions.
Warning: Avoid peppermint oil when using homeopathic treatment and do not store it near homeopathic remedies. Also. refrain from using it in the
bath as it irritates delicate mucous membranes.
1
There are many varicl ics or mini". and they grow very
easily-indeed.
they arc more difficult Lo eradicate
then to encourage in the garden! \lint likes damp
places beside rivers and streams or ponds.
ILsname is said lo come from the nymph, Minthe. who was courted by Pluto. Persephone, in a
jealous rage, changed her into a plant and crushed
her into the ground. Pluto turned her into a sweet
smelling herb. Nicholas Culpeper. the seventeenthcentury herbalist and astrologer, said it was a plant
or Ven us.
Peppermint oil is inexpensive and easily available. Its scenl is fresh, cool and pungent. \lints have
been cultivated for centuries and were known in
China and Japan. A type of peppermint

was found
in Egyptian tombs dating Lo about three thousand
years ago. Hieroglyphs
found in the temple al Edf'u
note it as a ritual perfume and it was one of the ingredients or kyphi, the sacred incense. The Creeks
and Romans used the herb to scent bathwater and

powdered it to use in bedding. According lo Pliny,
'the very smell of it alone recovers and refreshes the
spirit.'
In St :'v\a11he11'sGospel, we read 'You give a tenth
or your spices-mint,
dill and cumin.' (23: 23)
Peppermint oil is used in both eastern and
western medical and herbal traditions. IL is most
well known in the treatment or digestive problems
and headaches, as an ingredient or toothpaste and
mouthwashes, and is very popular i.11sweets. Rerrcshing peppermint tea is also easily available in
most supermarkets.
The oil is steam-distilled from the fresh leaves.
IL is very beneficial when studying, or when doing
work requiring deep concentration. as it helps concentration and alertness. Menthol. an ingredient or
inhalants, is extracted lrom peppermint. Inhaling or
vaporizing the oil assists breathing when suffering
from colds. sinusitis or hay lever. Ii is a useful deterrent on the runs or ants, cockroaches and rodents,
who will avoid areas where iLis sprinkled.

Peppermint oil acts on the nervous system,
stimulating and awakening both the nerves and the
brain, and ii is useful when sum~ring from mental
l~1Ligue.ILis thus very beneficial when lravclling. especially on longjourncys and Ilighrs. Sprinkle a drop
or two on a tissue and keep it in the pocket when
on lens0 llishis.
It is invizoratinu
Cl
0
::i and cneruizinz
t'l
t't and
keeps the sinuses free in the stuffy atmosphere of' an
aeroplane.
ILis useful for shock, stress and nervous tension
and uplifting for the emotions. Inhaling the oil leaves
vou feeling fresh and alert.
l.motlonally, it gives you confidence Lo be yoursel I'.11was iradi lion a 1ly classi ficd as a visionary herb
and. used in meditation, can bring fresh insights.
Spiritually, it is reputed Lostimulate the llow or
energy bet ween the heart and the crown chakras and
it cleanses and balances the aura. ILenhances scnsiLivitv and awareness, so bringing alertness in Lo the
spiritual life. It can make the spiritual path clearer so
that we o<rain confidence in Iollowins LI it.
In the yoga tradition, concentration, which is a
keynote of' peppermint oil, is called dharana. ILis the
first stage of meditation. According to the Indian
sage, Patanjali, there arc three slages lo meditation:
dltaran, concentration: dliyaua, meditat ion; and

J\ I EDITATLON WTTTT PEPPERM l"NT 011.
samadlu. bliss, union with the divine, which is the
ultimate goal of yoga.
This uses a yoga technique for developing concentraOften, when new Lo meditation, people find
tion called trataka, candle-gazing.
their mind wandering. Even experienced meditators
I. Put a drop or two or peppermint oil on a tissue
some ti mes rind lheir powers or concert lrat ion 11a- or in the vaporizer.
vcring. One mcditator thought he was con cent rating
2. Light a candle and place ii in front or you so that
very well, and in a slate or bliss, until he heard the
the candle llamc is directly in front or you. 1110or
gong for supper! Use peppermint oil lo develop your
three feet away.
powers of concentration. bur not late al night as ii 3. Sit and gaze at the candle flame without blinkcan prevent sleep.
iJ1g.Continue until you have 10blink or tears come
in lo your eyes.
4. When this happens, close your eyes. You will sec
1"11eafter image or ihe flame in front or your brow.
Continue lo gaze at this. lf the image disappears.
open your eyes and gaze at the flame again. repealing the process as long as you wish.
5. Then move into a stale ofrnediunion.
6. Visualize a candle flame in your heart chakra
and concentrate on ii for some minutes. This is also
a traditional yoga meditation calledjyholi.
7. Conclude your meditation when you are ready.
Avoid this visualization with the candle if \'OU
have epilepsy. Then meditate on the inner vision ola
Ilame with your eyes closed.
Pine
(Pi1111ssylvestris)
Keynote: rlarily. slre11g1hand e11d11m11ce.
selj~eslw11.
Affirmation: I 0111Ji/led wil]: s/re11glh. J 0111jinn and
strong.
This is the Scots pine. which can grow up to forty
metres in heigh!. There are over a hundred species
of pine trees, The Scots or Norway pine is the commonest variety. The Lall trunks ofthe pine trees were
used for the masts ol'sailing ships. Pinc kernels were
a favourite food with the ancient Egyptians. who
used them in bread, and they arc used today in cooking. Pinc oil is an excellent Lonie for the lungs and
'opens lhe chest in cases ofchest infections, especially in the winter. This helps to bring about a feeling of
self-confidence and a positive attitude to life. Dr Edward Bach recommended the flower essence (not the
essential oil) for those who take other people's problems for their own, and Lo release old guilL and feelings or depression and melancholy. :\ massage with
the oil is also useful for depression and for those who
are introverted and withdrawn. cncouraainz
lcclinus
0
~
Cl
or positivity and self-acceptance.
Pines arc enduring trees. Almost all trees have a
longer life-span than we do and can sec things from

a higher pcrspcct ivc. Conifers arc among the oldest
species on the planet and were the first plants known
to produce essential oils. l.ikc ccdarwood, pine is
used for building and the wood resists fungus and
bacteria due lo its high resin content. Conifers help
in maintaining health, as they boost the immune
system. They arc reputed lo be invaluable al limes
of transition. such as moving house. changing jobs.
marriage, giving bi rrh, and at times of grief and divorce when people need Lolet go.
As a teenager. I had a very powerful healing experience while being driven through a pine forest. It was
the summer of' 'A' level exams and I had a terrible ailack of catarrh and sinusil is. I could hardly breathe.
my head ached and nothing seemed to relieve it. We
wen I on a visit LoFdinburgh, driving up through the
pine forests of Cumbria and soul hcrn Scotland. The
day was hot and sunny and we had the car windows
open. The scent of' the pine trees was like perfume
and by the Iimc we arrived. my sLuffy nose and headache were completely cured. This was just before I
left home Lo Ci110 lo collcsc,
a time when I needed a
ti
secure sense or direction, on the verge or adult hood.
Pinc certainly gave il Lo me. PiJ1c trees also have the
reputation of' healing the energy field.
Pinc oi I is very good for massaging 1 he lower

back when ii feels achy and weak. In yoga postures,
the sining posture is called daudasana, the stall'. or
slick pose. The staff referred lo is the spine. which
keeps us sl rong and erect, just as a pilgrim's or shaman's staff helps them. Sit on the floor. with your
legs straigh: Olli in front or you and res! your hands
beside you. palms 10 the floor and your spine lifted
and straight. A pine oil massage strengthens I he
spine. your own staff
In parts of Poland and the Czech Republic. pine
resin was burn! between Christmas and New Year
lo deter evil spirits and other negative influences. In
some parts or Europe. pine trees arc planted around
cemeteries. There arc Japanese myths about the fungus or lmmonaliiy which grOl\'S under holy trees.
though! 10 be pine trees. In China. dragons, which arc
thought Lo bring good luck, are associated with pine
trees. ILis said that pine trees change into dragons.
.\IFDITi\TIOf\
r\.\101\C THE Pl(-.!ES
I. Ir you know a sale place amongst pine Irecs

where you could meditate, silting with your hack
agains: a pine tree, iLwould be ideal. It is, in any case.
ver~' strcngrhcning to stand with your back against
a tree. I have a favourite cedar tree in my local park
and I like to lean against its trunk. Otherwise prepare your oil as before.
2. Ccn trc you rsclf wi I h your brcat hing Lil the usual
Wal'.
aroma or
./ bccominz ~ aware or the inviuoraunz
t"
C"
the pine essence.
3. Visualize yourself sitting i11a pine forest. Inhale
the aroma of the pine trees. Imagine yourselrsitting
with your back lo a strong pine trunk. Fed the firmness or Ihe bark against your back. Feel the sl rcngth
olrhc tree filling your own 'star!" (spine) and invigoratinsL" ii with its cncruv,
0_,
4. Look around you and sec that you arc in a clearing in the pine forest, The trunks oft hr majest ic Irees
arc like the columns ofa natural cathedral.
5. In the centre or the clearing you become aware
ola shaft ofbright lighL. As you become accustomed
LOil. you sec Ihe form of an angel. or deva. of the pine
forest. ILenvelops you with slrcngllll'ning healing enl'rgy. You know that its spiritual essence ol'slrength
and confidence is also present in the oil when you

USC it.
6. The angel surrounds and rills you with strcngLh
and healing and you in turn radiate your love and
gral iLucicIo the angel and for Ihe gifts or Ihe Irecs.
7. vvhcn you feel your meditation is complete,
Ihank 1he angel and the trees for thci r gi r'tsolstrcngth
and endurance.
8. Conclude vour meditation.
I
-.~-,
.....
.... ~
....
:.
Rose
(Rosa Damascena)
Keyn Ol c: low and devotion. i1111rrvision. selj uccepl anee.
Affirmation: ,\lay the je1l'cl in the rose of 11~1 hear/
/J11rn/Jrighily. /Jri11gi11galJ011/spiri/110/ il/11111i11alio11.
The damask rose produces the best quality essence.

rose 0110. As this oil is cosily, use the solvent-extracted absolute in the vaporizer. Two 01 her roses are also
used for perfume, Rosa cent ljolia. Ihe cabbage rose
and Rosa gallirn. the French rose.
The rose is. perhaps. Ihe mos! popular [lower or
all. Entire books are written about the rose, from its
cultivation, myths and tradition. to perfumery and
essences. Sappho. the Creek poetess. called the rose
'queen or [lowers' over Iwo Ihousand years ago. The
history oft he rose can be traced back for hundreds or
years. Fossil records show roses already in existence
forty million years ago. The oldest image of' roses is
found on the wall or1 he Palace ofKnossos. excavated
in Crete. A I Iii I ire coin also shows a rose slam peel on
ii and is believed Lo dale from 2.000 llCE. In 1888.
Sir Flinders Petric. the British archaeologist. discovered a wreath of' five-petalled flowers in an Egyptian
tomb. Although shrivelled in the dry desert air, they

had kepi Iheir colour. When placed in warm water,
they seemed Lo revive. "The buds swelled and the
pink petals spread, unfolding Lo reveal the knot of
golden threads al the centre, just as they must have
been on the morning of the funeral.' (Lawless, Rose
Oil, p. x) It was identified as Rosa sane/a, the Holy
Rose or Abyssinia (Ethiopia).

The rose is one or the flowers sacred Io Ihe EgypLian Goddess, Isis. IL is reported that rose petals
were strewn eighL inches deep on the ground when
Cleopatra first met Mark Antony. Greeks dedicated
the rose lo Aphrodite, Goddess or love and beau Ly
The Romans linked the rose with Venus, Goddess
of Love. Signs or an ancient rose cull have also been
found in India and Syria. The name. Syria. derives
lrom 'suri', meaning land of roses. The rose is a powerful symbol and is used all over the world Lo suggest love, but also inspired the name ol'! he V\'ars of
the Roses' in medieval England. Tn medieval times,
also. roses were sacred Lo Mother \fary, the mother
of Jesus Christ, ;\ well-known carol from this period
is ollcn sung during the Christmas season.
'There is no rose of such vi rtue
As is the rose that bare Iesu.'
The rosary, the beads on which prayers arc said Lo
Mary, gets its name from roses. They were originally

made from a hundred and sixty-five dried and carefully-rolled rose petals. The wild rose is still the royal
flower of England and the British King or Queen is
anointed at the coronation ceremony with a holy oil
containing rose essence. The recipe dales back lo the
1 welfth century. A single reel rose is given as a token
of love and bouquets ofred roses fill Ihe florist's and
supermarkets on SLValen Line's Day.
Culpeper considered the rose to be a cephalic
herb-that
is. it is uplifting to the mind in depression. It is also helpful for insomnia, as ii quietens
the mind. Jn traditional aromatherapy, the rose
(Rosa damasceua. rose otto) is used as a heart Lonie.
[t calms and supports the heart and restores a sense
of well- being. 'The damask rose is the Holy Rose,
a symbol of God's love to the world.' (1' lojay, AR0\t.1T1-1rn.1PYFOR Hi:.,11.1;-;cTllE SPIRIT, p. 113). When Ber-
nadci Lehad her vision of;\ lary al Lourdes. she was

surrounded by roses.
As well as being associated with lhe physical heart
in the western mystery tradition, the rose is taken
as a symbol of the heart chakra, lhe energy cent re
associated with the physical heart and the thymus
gland. In the yogic tradition, the lotus blossom has
the same significance but. from ancient Limes, the
heart chakra is seen as the cent re of the spirit.
'In the centre of the castle of' Hrahman, our own
body. there is a small shrine in the form of a (lotus)
Sower .... The liLLicspace within the heart is as great
as this vast universe ... for the whole universe is in
him and Ile dwells within our heart.' (C11\\/1>ocn
UP.1t-.:1s111D,
Penguin Books. 1977)
In The Song of Songs,' the bride of the songs
speaks: 'Tam a rose of Sharon' (2 : ."I)
In a recent book (Tm: Sl'CrlETTE.1c11INGS or: \ l.IR\
~ l.1cD.\Ll'M),Claire Nahmad and\ largarct 13ailcytake
the Rose of' Sharon Lo be \ lary ~ lagdalene or even
Isis herself. The rose symbolizes the spirit. Shar-011
is considered Lobe an Orbit of Light, 'an inner world
of the spiritual realms associated with advanced enlightcnmenl.' The lily upon the surface of the waler
is taken as a symbol of spirit and the rose is its innermost centre, the jewel al the heart of the lotus.
0\ I \ tr\i\ I Pi\ L),\.1llC~ I
The spiritual teacher, \i\'hite Eagle, speaking through

Grace Cooke, spoke often of the rose. I le reminded
bis students of the Rosicrucian Brotherhood, whose
greeLing was 'may the rose bloom upon your cross'.
This meant that through constant striving towards
the Light, the darkness of materiality, the cross.
(astrological symbol of planet Earth) would be
transmuted into the fragrant rose of the spiritual
liJe (Stella Polaris, August-September
1962, While
Eagle Publishing Trust.) I le referred LoChrist as the
\!laster of the Rose.
SPIRITUALQUALITIES OF MEDITATION OILS - SS
\IEDITATION ON Tl IE ROSE
I. Sil for meditation as described (pp. 13-14). using rose oil.
2. Visualize a brilliant light like the sun or a radiant star shining above you. Breathe in its light and
feel it shining down through your crown centre
(chakru) into your chest and heart chakra.
3. Continue Lobreathe in this light and sec it shining
on lo a beaut ilul rosebud in the centre or vour chest.
the heart chakra. Observe the rose and its colour.
4. As the lighL continues lo shine on Lothe rose. sec
the petals begin lo open. The petals open wide. Deep
in the heart, your heart. of' the rose. you sec a small
drop of dew. The light pours down onto the drop of
dew and it becomes brilliant like a diamond.
5. The rose becomes a Iu II-blown rose with a brillian I diamond, the jewel of enlightenment, deep in
its heart. This diamond. the jewel of the Christ, or
enlightenment. of Brahman. or the Creal Spirit, is
always there. waiting lo be discovered and revealed.
Then we truly know ourselves.
6. When you arc ready Lo close your med ital ion,
visualize the petals of' lhe rose closing again lo protect lhe jewel.
7. lking your attention back Lo the breath, then
open your eyes when ready.
Rosemary
(Rose ma ri nus o.ff7cina! is)
Keynotes: selj~/.:110111/edge.dedication.
and destiny. It is
hcri: of re111e111/Jra11ce.
Affirmation: 1 remembe: who I m11. 11 /Jere I a111ji-0111.
1vhy 1 0111 here. where I a111 going.
Warning: Rosemary oil should not be used in cases
or epilepsy or during pregnancy. I lowcvcr, in such
cases, it is sale to use l he herb in cooking.
an
~1lany of us probably remember ihc well-known

keynote men Lion of' rosemary in the words, There's
rosemary. that 's for remembrance', which arc from
Ophelia's speech in I kunlet. Culpeper recommended
it to help a weak memory and lo quicken the senses.
It is associated with the sun, which brings vitality.
Rosemary oil is easily obtainable and is inexpensive. Rosemary is a very popular culinary herb. TLis
an evergreen perennial shrub, with leathery green
spiky leaves and pale blue flowers in springtime. TLs
name. rosemary, is derived from the l.arin Nos mari1111s.meaning rose oft he sea. Sprigs ofit can be soaked
in vinegars and olive oil to impart its properties for
cooking and a herbal massage oil can be made from
iLby infusing the sprigs in a vegetable oil.
The ancient Egyptians hum! sprigs of rosemary

as ritual incense and placed them in the tombs or
the pharaohs lo help them remember Iheir former
life. The plant was also sacred Lo the Greeks and
Romans. The Greeks dedicated ii lo Apollo, the sun
god, and Ihe god Loo of medicine, music, poetry and
prophecy. ILsymbolized loyalty, death and remembrance, as well as scholarly learning. People wore
garlands or rosemary al weddings and important
occasions to symbolize trust and faithfulness, This
custom continued in Europe. as sprigs or gilded rosemary were presented Loguests lo symbolize love and
friendship. It was burnt as incense at funerals Lo respect and honour the deceased. Rosemary has been
associated with good luck lor centuries and is also
known as an herb or protection. In medieval times.
it was used Loprotect against Ihe plague and also as
a Lonie to improve heal Ih. Rosemary also assists the
work or healing angels and iL protects psychically.
SC one drop or ihc oil on a tissue, or in the waler
you wash with in the morning iryou arc travelling on
public transport, working in a busy office or dealing
with the public. ILis also a stimulant, waking you up
ready for the day.
Csed in meditation, iLbrings confidence and self~
worth. II is an excellent oil lo use for those who dis-
miss Iheir meditations as 'only imagination' and lack

confidence in Iheir inner guidance. For such people,
burning or using Ihe oil on a Iissue will help 10 make
the spiritual connection needed during meditation.
It will help them Lo become more conlident in using and trusting the guidance that comes lo them.
The oil helps us lo remember who we really arc.
that ll'C are spiritual beings having a human experience (sec the affirmation above). II has an alTiniLy
with the brow chakra, known as the third eye. ajna
clutkra in the yogic system. This is the chakra particularly associated with the intuition and inner vision. Moder education docs not encourage the use
or the imaginal ion. When I am Leaching workshops
and meditation, I often ask how many people were
reprimanded for daydreaming al school when they
were young. There is usually a one-hundred-percent
response. Were you Loki lo slop daydreaming and lo
pay al Lention lo the lesson in progress? Thal is one
way lo lose the connection with your spiritual sell;
which communicates through the imagination and
in LuiLiveguidance.
'lmaginaLion is truly the doorway Lo your erealive powers. II is primarily a spiritual 1hing and
opens up a higher world.' (white Eagle)
White Eagle has a lot Losav about imagination.
Ile reminds us that when we sec pictures in our

minds and imagine them clearly, we arc developing
spiritual clairvoyance. We need Louse the act of will
to go into the world of"imagination and cvcntuallv
11'cwill realize 11carc visiting the world olspirit. He
tells us Iha]. when we think 'it is only my imagination, it is really the lower mind speaking and it is
our enemy. So using rosemary oil helps Loremind us
that we do come from the world of spirit. and we will
return there. but also we can go there now in meditation. Rosemary also helps with developing clarity in
using the will in creative visualization.
\'ISUAIJZATlON TO CO.t\'l\1KT \\'ITH

YOURUH PURPOSE
I. Use the essential oil as before and breathe slowly

and smoothly. Think or nothing but your breath.
Witness each breath as il comes and goes.
2. Visualize lighL surrounding you and filling you
unt ii you feel every atom and cell or vour whole being resonating with light.
3. Sec in front or you a shirting being or light. your
guardian (or personal) angel. Imagine it clearly.
Whal colours is it wcarins ~ or what coloured Iisht
~
is it? I low do you lccl? (peaceful. happy, confident.
loving'') \\'hat other positive ICclings might you feel?
This is the keynote or your personal angel.
4. The angel Lakes you through the light until you
see in front of you a magnificent buiJding. IL is a library of records. What does it look like? Is it Like a
university, a city Library, a civic building? Create itin
your mind. Decide what the architecture is like. the
doors. windows, steps Lo the entrance. In it you will
find your Book or Life. which records all you agreed
to do before you rel urned Loth is earth Iifc,
5. Go into the magniliccnt building with your angel. Inside there is a large reception area with corridors leading from it. Follow the angel along one of
l he corridors. Observe the l"urnishings and dccoraLions. There arc doors along l he corridor. Whal do
they look Like'! You come to a door with your own
name on it. This is where the records of your life are
held.
6. Co into the room and inside you sec a large table.
On iL is a book. your Book or Life. There is a curaLor or wise man-woman there, your spirit guide.
Your guide and guardian angel help you with your
lite mission. When you ask lor help, they will always
help you. The book is open. al a page thaL Lelis you
what you decided Lo do in lhis life before you were
born. The guide and angel helped you lo choose your
parents and the conditions ~ ou would need in life.
You even decided your name.
7. Read the page that is open before you. llvou !Cc!
you need help with your life, ask for guidance. II'you
already know what your lite work is. ask for help lo
com pie Leit successfu 1 ly.
8. Thank your guide and angel and leave lhe room,
walking along lhe corridor and back Lothe reception
area and out of the building. You can return any time
you need more inspiration.
You [111dyourself back in your body. Breathe
more deeply and make sure you are grounded again.
Affirm. 1 remember my life's purpose'.
1
Sandalwood
(Sa11talu111 allnun)
l(eynote: stillness. serenity. 1111ily.
Affirmation: 1 a111 iu tuue wilh divine wisdom.
Sandalwood is becoming more rare and expensive,
owing Loover-felling ofthe trees, Beware oladultcrarcd oils and substitutes lrom other areas. You need
Lo check the correct botanical name when buying
the oil and buv only from a reputable arornatherapv supplier.
Sandalwood is a parasitic evergreen tree, which
grows to a height olabout nine metres. The best oil
is extracted from the heartwood by steam distillation and is pale yellow in colour.
The tree is found in Southern Asia and the best
medicinal quality is lound in \lysore. The wood is
carved into furniture, temples, statues and images,
ma!a (meditation) beads and is burnt as incense in
Buddhisl and I lindu temples. It is used to anoint
and embalm the dead and Lo carry the soul onto
its journey in Lo the next lile. Yogis use it to encourage the stale of' meditation and enhance devotion
lo the divine and it is widelv used in ceremonies.
balances Ihe energy between Ihe base and crown

chukras. The oldest record or sandalwood is found
in the Vedic scripture. the Nurukia (lifih century
er). and it is mentioned as one ofthe most valuable
essences or Indian spiritual use.
lts aroma is said lo reach out into the universe
finding spiritual wisdom and inspiration. Al the
cmot ion al level, it encourages warmth. scnsitivii )'.
harmony. peace, wisdom and unity within oneself
and with the divine. The effect or its oil is soot hing
and very relaxing. while for those who lack self-csteem, sandalwood is a good oil Lo have. This lack
often sterns lrom childhood, when children can (eel
as ii"they are no good and can do nothing right.
I associate sandalwood with Saraswati. goddess
or wisdom and learning. Site is usually depicted silting on a lotus pedestal, wiih four arms. She plays
a vecna. a onc-suingcd lute, with two or her hands.
In the upper righl hand she holds a rosary. while in
the upper lcf"Ihand she holds a book. Iler vehicle is
a swan, a symbol or grace and her emblem is a sixpointed star. the yogic symbol of Ihe heart chakra,
In the western Iraditions, Sophia is the goddess
ol'wisdorn. Sophia is her Greek name. In 1lebrew it is
11
Hokhmah, and she is seen as the feminine aspect or

Cod. 1ler symbol is the dove, representing the 1loly
Spirit. She is seen crowned by stars. In the Biblical
traditions. she is often associated with Solomon.
the wise l\ing of Israel. In Ihe Book of l\ings, we arc
told that Cod gave wisdom LoSolomon and. in the
Song of Songs, ii speaks or Solomon's marriage lo
I loly Sophia. She is particularly worshipped in the
Fas Iem and Russian Ori hod ox tradit ions and venerated in the Gnostic tradition. She is often linked
lo i\ Iother i\ lary and i\ lary i\ lagdalcnc and is also
depicted as the Egyptian Goddess. Isis.
So sandalwood oil has a sl rong association wit h
feminine divine wisdom, and can be used when
you especially wan I lo al tune lo wisdom for a particular projecl or idea. I lowever, as sandalwood is
also a sedative, lo prevent sleep only use one or Iwo
drops. The spiritual reacher. \ \ihile Eagle. tells us
that the colour of spiritual wisdom is yellow. the
colour also of sandalwood oil. I le also says Ihat Irue
wisdom cannot he learned. ii is innate. Read in~ all
the books in the world will not make us wise h111.
when we meditate, we can contact divine wisdom.
1
\I FDITJ\Tf01\' ON
SPLRlTC1U WISDO;'v\WITH SAN DALV\iOOl) 01 I,
I. Use the oil as before. If you can rind a yellovv

or orange rose. place iL in front or you. The rose is
the symbol or I he hear I, I he place or wisdom. V\ihite
Eagle calls it the mind in the heart.
2. Gaze al the rose and begin to breathe slowlv
and gently. The brcat h in meditation should always
be smooth.
3. Close your eyes and continue lo visualize the
rose. Then visualize ihe rose being in your heart
chakra and breathe in and out ollhc rose.
4. Hcoin
Lolccl that the rose is t'lzrowinu t't bimrer
and
r"I
L'Ll
bigger until you arc inside ihc rose. Inhale the scent
of the rose and sec the petals !urning into pillars of
a lm1111ilul temple of wisdom. Look around you and
become aware or beautiful 0uolden licrht
surroundinz Ci
~
you. You may become aware of some of' Ihe symbols

or wisdom mentioned earlier.
5. Continue Lo breathe in this pure golden lighL.
the light ofpure spiritual wisdom. lfthcrc are any issues that you would Likesome enlightenment about.
conccruratc on them and wail lor pictures, images,
ideas. Ihat come into your mind. Don 'Ldismiss Ihem
as 'onlv imagination.'
6. You mighl become aware of a shining goddess
figure who speaks LOyou.
7. Continue Lo visualize and breathe gcnLly into
your hear! chakra until you !eel ilx lime lo conclude,
8. Bring your attention back lo the breath. release
the imagery. and when you arc ready, open your
eyes.
4. CONCLUSION
i\IAJ\'Y .\IORE essential oils could be used for mediration. The ones mentioned arc those 1ha1 l have
used for many years and with which I have experienced the meditations given. Once you become interested in using essential oils 1-0 meditate with. you
will find that you become more and more cnthuxiastic and inspired. Use the oils when you meditate, fol-
low the processes given and discover more and more

information from the plan! world. Keep a notebook
and build up a nuiteria aroniaiica of information, for
your own use if for no-one else. The alchemy of essen I ial oils begins at home. wi I h the plan Ls IH' know
and USC often.
Appendix
KEYS Meditation Blend
I have torrnulated a blend that we use for meditation
al our workshops and meditation groups. ILcon la ins
eleven or the essential oils mentioned in the book.
For more information, please con lac! us I hrough
our website www.kcystoliglu.co.uk or phone +44
(0)20 8560 720J. we also sell CDs or music for
meditation including singing bowls. essential oils
and books. and 11eleach yoga and workshops or a
spiritual nature. Contact us through the website or
phone.
Bibliography
Ashley-Farrand. Thomas: 11E.11.1:--:c;
11.1:\T1t.1s.
with rn
(Gateway, 2000)
Chiazzari, Suzy: cmorn su.xrs (The C.\ \'. Daniel
Company. 1998)
Cooke, Crace: 11rn1T.\'J'JON
(third edition. \\'hile Eagle
Publishing Trusl. 1999)
Cooke, Crace: TJJEJE\\'EL1:--: Till' r.orr's (\\'hile Eagle
Pub Iish i ng Trust. 1973)
Coricns. Thcolvn: 11'0R1-.1:--:c

11TJ'J
1 \OUR cL11m1IN
\i\CEl.S(Pia! kus, 2005)
Corl ens. Thcolvn: 110R1-.1:--;c;
11Trn INCEIs (Cacr Sidi
Publications, L996)
Culpeper. Nicholas: n11.1'El'rns COJ.OL'R 11r1rn.11.
(Foulsham, 1996)
Davies. Patricia: SL'BTJ.E1Rm11T11rn.1P\(The C.W.
Daniel Company. 1991)
1lavward. Ylana: 1 111rTo 111PJ>JNESS
(White Eagle
Publishing Trusl. 1995)
I Iowa rd. Judy: Tl IE B.\CJJ FLOl\'EJ(RE:-JEUICS
STEPII\ STJ:J>
(The C.W. Daniel Cornpanv, 1990)
Lawless, Julia: RmE011.(Thorsons, 1995)
Lawless, Julia: Tl IE 11.1.LISTR.\TEJ)
ENC\'CLOPEJ)L\
OFESSENTl.\I. 011.s(Element, 1996)
;\.l<0upuria, T.C.. and Roh ii Kumar (Majupuria) cons
.vxn CODDESSES
(Smt. j\ 1.0. Gupta. India. 2000)
\lojay, Gabriel: \RO\l.\TllERIP\' FORllE.\l.ll\C:TllE SPIRIT
(Gaia Books. 1996)
Nahmad, Claire and Bailey. \ largaret: Tl JI' srrnrT
'J'J:.\CJJJ\;C~
OF~I\J(\ \J.\(;J),\l.lcl\e(Walkins. 2006)
Prabhavananda, Swami, and ;-.,1ancheslcr,Frederick:
Tl II' LIP,\l\ISII.IDS.BRE.\'J'l
1OFTlIEETER:\.\I.(J\ lcn Lor, 1980)
APPENDIX 63
,\RO\l ITllER II'\' 11'0Rl\11001\(Thorsons.

1991)
Sal yananda, Swami: 1oc 1 '\\\JR 1 (Bihar School of'
Yoga. Bhargava Bhuslian Press. Varanasi. 1993)
The Bible: New International version, I lodder &
Stoughton. 1996
\\'hite Fagle, Sl'l\(\Tll,\\. L'l\FOLD\\E\'T t (white l~agle
Publishing Trust, third edition. 2000
Wildwood, Chrissie: ,\ltO\\ 1 1tE~1rn1Es(Collins and
Brown. 2000)
Wildwood, Chrissie: rnE.ITE mm rn1:-:l'E1mws L'SJNC
ESSEl\Tl.11.
on.s (Piatkus, 1994)
Worwood, Valerie r\1111:TllE rn1c1i1NT 11E11T\'S(Bantam Books. 1999).
Price. Shirley:
UK Suppliers of Essential
Oils and Equipment

Alan llml'cll. Shcrhina, 21. Chatsworth
I lounslow, \ liddlcsex, TW3 2PE
Tel. & fax +44 (0)845 458 5757
www.shcchina.co.uk
Nat um/ by Nature Oils
www.nat uralbyna 111 re.co.uk
Essmtia/01 Oils
www.essen tial Iyoi ls.corn
Crescent.
J\lateria Aromatica. essential oils from organic and

wild-cralled plants, London House. 42c Upper Richmond Road \\'est. London SWl4 8DD.
Order line: 020 8392 9868
1v1v1v.ma Leriaa ro maa lica .com
Outside the UK. t1y 11111111.11a/11resgifi.ro111
(Nature Cifi
1\ro111atlrempy in Te1111e.1scc.
USA. or key 'essential oils'
into an internet search cugin.
Useful Websites
KITS. Kathleen and Uoy Pepper:
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Theo0111 Corl e11S:
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Essential Oils and Meditation

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ESSENTIAL

OILS AND MEDITATION

sox 3-+886 1.0:\DO:'\ \\'8 6\

pol a irpu bl ish i ng.co.u k

Kathleen Pepper. 2007

British Library Cataloguing-in-Publication

Set in .\rcpoat the i>ublishers

Csing Essential Oils and Plant

The Chakras, the Subtle Body and

1. USING ESSENTIAL OILS AND PLANT

in Hampshire. ILwas about the hislory of essential

plants and herbs have rradirionallv

with citrus fruits: en lieu rage, where jasmine flowers

plants is found in the Vedas. In Xlohcnjo Dara, an

The Greeks went to Egypt to study medicine and

Alchemy and Essential Oils

Earth. for she provides us with all our needs. Even

2. THE CHAKRAS, THE SUBTLE BODY

THE CHAKRAS,THE SUBTLE BODY AND OILS IN MEDITATION 11

column as centres ofligl1t rather like bell bell-shaped

Attuning to the Spirit of

the trees and plants of Texas. She wouldn't tell me

cslcd in plan Ls. SO a Ill'\\' tradition or plant use can

THE CHAKRAS,THE SUBTLE BODY AND OILS IN MEDITATION 13

internet is a good source or information and you

Essential Oil Safety

one teaspoon (5 mis) of \'egctablc oil. If your skin

Blending Oils to Vaporize

they arc of' cosmetic qualit ~1101cooking oils.

Choose good qualitj: essential oils, prckrably

cies that have good testers. or go lo a workshop where

THE CHAKRAS.THE SUBTLE BODY AND OILS IN MEDITATION 15

3. SPIRITUAL QUALITlES OF MEDITATION 01 LS

al workshops when needing lo attune lo higher"

J\TTU~Ei\ \ Ei\T TO YOLJR P.ERSOi'\i\I. i\NCEl.S

the air and rainbow mists form in the spray as the

1,;c\'llote:joy. mligh1e11111ml. clea11si11g.

ILalso 'opens the chest, allowing you LoLakea deeper

or Sheba gave it LoSolomon. Its name

aim derives from balsam in its derivation from the

TO ARC! lr\l\C El. :\llCI IJ\FL

I. Sitting in your usual meditation position. begin

heart centre. There are while benches placed around

candle, then gives ii Lo you. IL is a symbol of lighL,

closer. and will bring the guardian angels closer

A varietv or chamomile oil was used on the

colour. Blue is associated 11 ith the throat chakra,

This meditation is a traditional yoga visualization

l.'se cinnamon sparingl~ in the

burner or diffusoverpower ot her

B.\SIC BLEND FOR A

SPIRITUAL QUALITIES OF MEDITATION OILS 23

infections. 'opening' the chest for easier breathing. IL

-:liis meditation came 10 me while silling under the

I. Breathe deeply and take your thoughts into your

know about. and also the hurls and grievances you

gemstones. \lake it as bcmuiful as you can and be as

Everlasting (or Immortelle)

valuable for those who cannot face deep painful

Everlasting is known as one or the sacred oils.

ing in the yoga relaxat ion pose. savasaiia. Be sure Lo

ROOT(al the base or the spine. lhe coccyx). Four dark

C'l IM.:RA \llSt.;AllZAT101\

Before you do Ihis. take some Iirnc Lo remember the